Why Some Christians Are Saying 'No' to Costly Health Insurance and 'Yes' to Federal Exemption

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As individuals determine what the Affordable Care Act means for them, many are seeking an alternative to the insurance coverage now required by law.

Melbourne, Fla. (PRWEB) November 14, 2013

The Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate to purchase insurance in 2014 has caused the unexpected ripple effect of a record number of families exploring unconventional alternatives. During the first month of open enrollment, thousands of Christians have chosen to satisfy the individual mandate by taking advantage of a special provision in the new law.

Members of Medi-Share, a healthcare sharing organization, are not required to purchase health insurance, giving Christians a choice to help manage their healthcare costs. And, when compared with a traditional insurance option, it is significantly more affordable.  

“As individuals determine what the Affordable Care Act means for them, many are seeking an alternative to the insurance coverage now required by law. Because of the complications to the online health insurance exchange and the large number of individuals receiving notice that their insurance policies have been canceled, thousands call each day to find out about healthcare sharing and the provision for Medi-Share members,” said Tony Meggs, president and CEO of Christian Care Ministry, which operates Medi-Share.

Since open enrollment began on October 1, Medi-Share has seen a 146 percent increase in inquiries. With more than 23,000 requesting information just in the month of October, and many of those applying to become members, Medi-Share is seeing the impact the new healthcare laws are having on some American Christians. Currently, many Christians do not receive insurance from an employer and this number could continue to increase as employers decide what to do with the changes in healthcare laws. Particularly if employers decide to only cover the employee and no longer choose to include the spouse and dependent(s).

Medi-Share is a member-based program where like-minded individuals directly share medical bills. Members appreciate that it aligns with their faith and values. Since 1993, the organization has shared more than $582 million in medical expenses and saved an additional some $226 million in medical expenses. Medi-Share currently has more than 67,000 members and growing. In the month of October, a record-breaking 2,108 Christians joined Medi-Share.

Christian Care Ministry has provided biblical healthcare solutions for more than 20 years. More than just healthcare, it is a community of people who pray for and encourage one another, and a team of professionals that promote and support living a healthy, biblical lifestyle through the programs Medi-Share, Restore, Manna and the website and app,PrayerStream. The American Heart Association recognizes Christian Care Ministry as a Gold Fit-Friendly Company.

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