One of The Best Business Decisions I’ve Made

When I first considered moving away from providing traditional health insurance for my employees, I had my doubts. It felt counterintuitive. For years, providing group health insurance felt like the “right thing” to do as an employer. But rising costs, employee dissatisfaction, and the growing administrative burden made me question whether it truly benefited my team—or my business. Looking back, this shift was one of the smartest decisions I’ve ever made.

Here’s why stepping out of the benefits business was the right move and a transformative one for our company and our employees.

Empowering Employees with Choice

When we transitioned away from providing traditional health insurance, we gave our employees the freedom to choose coverage that worked best for them. Some opted for Health Share programs like ShareWELL, which offered a unique alternative to traditional plans for those who were a good fit. Others purchased plans on the healthcare exchange, where many qualified for financial assistance that significantly reduced their premiums—or even covered them entirely.

This freedom gave employees the power to tailor their healthcare to their specific needs and budgets, a stark contrast to the frustration they felt with the one-size-fits-all group plans we had previously offered.

Improving Employee Satisfaction

One of the driving factors behind this decision was recognizing that our employees didn’t truly appreciate the group plans we were providing. Each year, as rates increased and benefits diminished, frustration among our team grew. Employees often expressed dissatisfaction with us despite our best efforts to offer something valuable.

By empowering them to find and choose their own coverage, we changed the dynamic. Employees became more vested in their decisions and more informed about their options. Instead of feeling stuck with a plan that didn’t meet their needs, they now had control—and that control made all the difference.

Providing Support Along the Way

We didn’t leave our employees to navigate this change alone. To ease the transition, we brought in a local healthcare expert who served as a resource for employees needing guidance in selecting their plans. This ensured they had access to professional advice and felt supported throughout the process.

This small step of providing direction reinforced that we were still invested in their well-being, even if we weren’t directly managing their health benefits anymore.

Financial Wins for Everyone

One of the most immediate benefits was financial relief—for both the company and our employees. Without the burden of group insurance costs, we could give employees raises, redistributing some of the savings directly to them. This helped them cover their healthcare expenses and gave them extra flexibility in how to use the additional income.

For employees, the cost of coverage often dropped by half or more. Many who qualified for subsidies on the exchange could secure coverage at little to no cost.

Streamlining Operations

Another unexpected benefit was the reduction in administrative overhead. Managing healthcare benefits has been a complex and time-consuming process for our HR team. From plan renewals to compliance and employee inquiries, it often felt like we were running a mini insurance office on top of our actual business.

When we stepped away from providing health insurance, those responsibilities disappeared. Fewer internal resources were needed to manage benefits, allowing my team to refocus on what truly matters—our core business.

The Best Decision for Our Team

Ultimately, this decision improved our workplace. Employees were happier, more informed, and better equipped to manage their own healthcare. They appreciated our support and valued the increased control and flexibility.

Leaving traditional health insurance behind wasn’t easy, but it was right for us. It saved money, reduced administrative burdens, and, most importantly, empowered our employees to make informed choices that worked best for them.

Sometimes, rethinking the “standard” is the key to creating something better—for everyone.

The post An Alternative Healthcare Approach For My Employees appeared first on ShareWELL.

The Balance of Choice and Stewardship

Every member contributes to a shared pool of funds built on trust. That trust allows members to seek the care that best fits their individual health journeys, whether through conventional hospital treatment, holistic providers, or clinics outside the United States.

Freedom must be balanced with responsibility. Without clear guidelines, community funds could be quickly depleted by overlapping or experimental care. ShareWELL’s model ensures that members have access to meaningful support when it is truly needed while maintaining fairness and sustainability for the entire community.

Alternative Medicine for Serious Conditions

Alternative medicine includes care provided by nontraditional or international providers such as naturopaths, integrative physicians, or clinics outside the United States. These services often offer innovative, less invasive, and cost-effective approaches for serious conditions, including cancer, autoimmune disease, or chronic illness.

ShareWELL recognizes that alternative treatments can be just as effective, and often less costly, than traditional Western care. For serious conditions, Sharing Requests are reviewed and shared on an equitable basis with what the community would share toward conventional treatment.

For example, a member who chooses to receive integrative cancer treatment at a clinic in Mexico or Europe instead of chemotherapy or radiation may be eligible for equitable sharing once their Unshared Amount (UA) has been met. This approach preserves freedom of choice while ensuring fair and responsible use of community funds.

Requests for alternative treatment should include:

• Medical notes from a licensed prescribing provider

• Estimated costs or available upfront payment discounts

• An explanation of why the alternative treatment was selected instead of the traditional option

Alternative Testing and Nontraditional Treatments

ShareWELL also supports members exploring non-life-threatening conditions through functional or alternative approaches once they have met their Unshared Amount.

Members in their second year of membership may be eligible for:

• Up to $2,000 toward alternative testing used to determine a diagnosis, such as gut health analysis, celiac or hormone testing, skin condition assessments, fatigue evaluations, or Lyme disease testing.

• Up to $2,500 toward treatment of these conditions when there is no established traditional medical equivalent.

These allowances ensure members receive meaningful support for conditions that may not fit neatly into conventional care pathways while keeping the community’s sharing fiscally sustainable.

Recovery Therapies: Often Misunderstood

Many people associate alternative care with services like chiropractic or acupuncture. However, at ShareWELL, these therapies are typically considered part of Recovery Therapies and Treatments, not alternative medicine.

When prescribed for recovery from an acute injury or illness, chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, and physical therapy are eligible for up to $3,500 per Sharing Request once the Unshared Amount has been met. These therapies are considered standard components of recovery and generally do not require the documentation required for alternative medicine.

Holistic Maternity and Family Care

ShareWELL’s philosophy of freedom and stewardship also extends to maternity care. Members can choose natural and family-centered birth experiences that reflect their beliefs. Under the Prenatal and Postnatal Sharing Allowance, eligible services include midwives, doulas, home birth care, pelvic floor therapy, prenatal vitamins, lactation consultation, and postpartum counseling, with sharing up to $6,000 per maternity request. This reflects our broader view that holistic care can be embraced responsibly within a structured, community-based model.

Healing Together

At ShareWELL, we know healing is personal, but sharing is collective. Our guidelines for alternative and recovery care honor both individuality and stewardship.

By balancing compassion with accountability, we protect members’ freedom to choose traditional, alternative, or integrative care while ensuring that community resources remain strong for everyone.

Freedom in care works best when it is guided by fairness. That is how we share well and heal well together.

The post Holistic and Alternative Care Through ShareWELL appeared first on ShareWELL.

Bringing new life into the world is an exciting and deeply personal journey. At ShareWELL, we’re here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your maternity experience is empowered, informed, and well-supported. If you’re a ShareWELL member with an eligible maternity sharing request, here’s what you need to know about what’s included, what’s not, and the essential steps to ensure your care is shared effectively.

Step One: Confirming Eligibility

Maternity sharing with ShareWELL begins with verifying your eligibility. To qualify, your pregnancy must be confirmed to have begun at least 30 days after your membership start date. Once you suspect or confirm a pregnancy, please submit clinical notes from your first appointment as soon as possible. These notes help us verify your eligibility and begin coordinating your Sharing Request.

Step Two: Present as a Self-Pay Patient

As a ShareWELL member, you are free to see the providers of your choice, with no networks and the freedom to choose. When you go to your care provider, you’ll present as a self-pay patient. This allows you to take advantage of self-pay pricing, and it also enables ShareWELL to facilitate sharing effectively.

You will request a global maternity package from your provider. A global package typically includes:

• Prenatal visits
• Routine lab work
• Delivery (vaginal or cesarean)
• Postpartum follow-up visit(s)

It’s important to note that global packages vary, and not all services are always included. For instance, ultrasounds beyond the standard two, additional labs, high-risk pregnancy care, and anesthesia may fall outside the package. That’s why it’s essential to communicate with both your provider and ShareWELL to clarify what’s included and what’s not.

Step Three: Stay in Communication

We’ll be reaching out via email to confirm your care details and assist in coordinating the next steps. Please reply to these messages promptly and send us any bills that are outside your global package. Early and ongoing communication helps ensure timely sharing and reduces the likelihood of surprises or delays.

Also, as soon as you know where you plan to deliver, let us know. Some facilities offer self-pay discounts or programs that can reduce your personal Unshared Amount (UA). We can help you explore those options and guide you through any applications that may help lower your costs.

Broad Maternity Support and Holistic Care Options

One of the unique benefits of being a ShareWELL member is access to a wide range of eligible expenses related to prenatal and postnatal care. This includes traditional medical services, but also holistic care that supports your well-being throughout pregnancy.

Eligible expenses may include:

• Chiropractic care
• Acupuncture
• Doula services
• Midwifery
• Nutritional support
• Pelvic floor therapy

ShareWELL was designed to give mothers the freedom to choose the care that aligns with their values and preferences. Whether you’re seeing a midwife, using a birthing center, or working with a doula, you can use eligible sharing toward these services if they are part of your maternity care plan.

Simplifying the Process with Self-Pay and Prepayment

Whenever possible, we recommend arranging prepayment with providers. Prepaying as a self-pay patient can often lead to reduced rates and help streamline the sharing process. Our team is here to assist you in making these arrangements and ensuring you’re never navigating this alone.

Your Maternity Coordinator: A Dedicated Advocate

From the moment your maternity sharing request is approved, you’ll be paired with a ShareWELL maternity coordinator. This person is your go-to resource throughout the pregnancy journey. Whether you have billing questions, need help finding a provider, or want guidance on managing care logistics, your coordinator is here for you, every step of the way.

After Baby Arrives: Continued Support

The support doesn’t end at delivery. After your baby is born, your maternity coordinator will help you access an additional ShareWELL benefit: six months of diaper delivery, at no extra cost to you. You’ll have a variety of diaper brands to choose from, making those early months a little easier.

Welcoming a new baby is a life-changing experience, and ShareWELL is here to support you with clarity, compassion, and the resources you need. By understanding your sharing benefits and working closely with your coordinator, you can focus more on preparing for baby, and less on paperwork or billing.

If you’re expecting, make sure to submit your clinical notes early, communicate regularly, and explore all the care options available to you. We’re honored to be part of this chapter in your life.

The post A Guide for Maternity Sharing Requests appeared first on ShareWELL.

When it comes to getting lab work done, most people assume that having insurance is the only way to afford it. But what if I told you that going the self-pay route—skipping insurance entirely—could actually save you money? That’s right! By paying directly and using the right strategies, you can significantly cut costs on essential lab tests while maintaining quality and accuracy.

This blog will walk you through the most affordable ways to get your lab work done without insurance, where to go, and how to make the most of direct-to-consumer lab services like Ulta Labs, Grassroots Labs, Quest Diagnostics, and Labcorp.

Why Skipping Insurance for Lab Work Can Save You Money

Most people don’t realize that insurance-negotiated lab test prices are often higher than self-pay prices. The reason? Insurance companies negotiate set rates with labs and providers, which frequently include administrative fees, processing costs, and sometimes even markups that make your final bill much higher than expected.

When you go the self-pay route, you can:

• Avoid surprise bills (no unexpected “adjustments” from insurance).
• See upfront pricing before getting the test.
• Compare costs across different labs to find the best price.
• Skip unnecessary doctor’s visits (which also saves money!).

By bypassing insurance and ordering lab tests directly, you’re in control of your healthcare spending—and often, you’ll pay less than someone using insurance!

How to Get the Lowest Prices on Lab Work Without Insurance

1. Order Your Lab Tests Online First

One of the best ways to save money on lab work is by ordering your tests online before heading to the lab. Websites like Ulta Labs, Grassroots Labs, and DirectLabs offer pre-negotiated prices on common lab tests, sometimes at a fraction of the cost you’d pay through insurance.

These online platforms let you:

✔ Choose from hundreds of lab tests (blood work, hormone panels, cholesterol checks, etc.).

✔ Pay a low upfront price without hidden fees.

✔ Take your test order to a major lab like Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp for collection.

This approach ensures you lock in a low price before even stepping foot in a lab.

2. Use Independent Lab Companies Instead of Hospitals or Doctors’ Offices

Another way to save big? Avoid doing lab work at a hospital or through your doctor’s office.

Here’s why:

• Hospitals charge significantly higher rates for the same lab tests you can get elsewhere.
• Doctors’ offices often mark up the cost of tests because they act as the “middleman” between you and the lab.

Instead, go directly to labs like:

🔹 Quest Diagnostics – Nationwide lab offering a wide range of tests.

🔹 Labcorp – Another leading lab with affordable pricing for direct-pay customers.

By choosing an independent lab instead of a hospital-based facility, you’ll dramatically cut costs while still getting high-quality testing.

3. Compare Prices Across Different Labs

Prices for lab tests can vary significantly depending on where you go. For example, a basic CBC (Complete Blood Count) test can cost:

• $15 at Grassroots Labs
• $25 at Ulta Labs
• $50+ at Quest or Labcorp if paying full price (without pre-ordering online)
• $200+ at a doctor’s office or hospital

This is why shopping around and using direct-to-consumer lab services like Grassroots and Ulta Labs can lead to major savings.

4. Pay with a Health Savings Account (HSA)

Even if you’re paying out of pocket, you can still use tax-advantaged accounts like an HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account) to pay for lab tests.

This helps you:

✔ Use pre-tax dollars to cover lab expenses.

✔ Reduce your overall healthcare costs.

✔ Pay directly without going through insurance.

Many online lab providers accept HSA/FSA payments, making saving even easier. Don’t have a plan that would qualify for contributions to an HSA account? Check out options for self-employed and entrepreneurs. 

Real-Life Savings Example

Let’s say you need a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) and a lipid panel to check your cholesterol.

Here’s what you might pay using different methods:

• Hospital or doctor’s office with insurance → $150–$400 (after insurance adjustments).
• Quest or Labcorp without pre-ordering online → $60–$100.
• Ulta Labs or Grassroots Labs (ordering online first) → $25–$35.

That’s a savings of up to 80% just by skipping insurance and ordering online!

The Bottom Line: Be Your Own Advocate & Save on Lab Work

Getting lab work without insurance doesn’t have to be expensive. By using direct-pay options, ordering online ahead of time, and choosing independent labs, you can significantly lower your costs—often paying less than someone using insurance.

🔹 Order online through Ulta Labs, Grassroots Labs, or DirectLabs.

🔹 Go to Quest Diagnostics or LabCorp instead of a hospital or doctor’s office.

🔹 Compare prices and take advantage of discounts.

🔹 Use HSA/FSA funds to make payments more affordable.

By following these simple steps, you can take control of your healthcare and get the lab tests you need—without breaking the bank! 💰💉

The post How to Get Lab Work Done Without Insurance—and Save Money! appeared first on ShareWELL.

As a ShareWELL member, you can access a wide range of healthcare benefits designed to support your well-being and provide the flexibility to manage your health proactively. One option to add to your ShareWELL membership is the Quest Select Service, which allows you to access over 1,200 lab services at no cost through any Quest Diagnostics location. This blog will guide you on how to get the most out of using Quest Select Service.

The post Zero-Cost Preventive Labs & Testing with Quest Select appeared first on ShareWELL.

At ShareWELL , we understand the importance of preventive care and early detection of potential health issues. That’s why we offer an annual Sharing Allowance for our members with the ShareWELL Plus membership to use towards Life Line Screening services. Here’s everything you need to know about Life Line Screening and how to benefit from it as a ShareWELL member.

What is Life Line Screening?

Life Line Screening is a company that provides affordable, convenient, and non-invasive preventive health screenings. These screenings help identify risk factors for various health conditions, enabling early intervention and management.

Key Services Offered by Life Line Screening:

1. Cardiovascular Screenings:

• • Carotid Artery Screening: Detects plaque buildup in the arteries that supply blood to the brain, which can help prevent strokes.
  • Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) Screening: Identifies blockages in the leg arteries, which can indicate an increased risk for heart disease.
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening: Checks for an enlargement of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

1. Bone Health Screenings:

1. • Osteoporosis Risk Assessment: Ultrasound technology is used to measure bone density and assess the risk of osteoporosis.

1. Other Screenings:

• • Atrial Fibrillation Screening: Detects irregular heartbeats, which can lead to stroke.
  • Type 2 Diabetes Screening: Assesses risk factors for diabetes through blood glucose levels.

Benefits of Life Line Screening:

1. Early Detection: Identifying health risks early allows timely intervention and management, potentially preventing serious health issues.
2. Peace of Mind: Knowing your health status can provide reassurance and help you make informed health decisions.
3. Convenience: Screenings are conducted at local community locations, making accessing these important services easy.
4. Comprehensive Results: Receive detailed reports that you can share with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized health plan.

Annual Sharing Allowance for ShareWELL Members

At age 40, ShareWELL members are eligible for an annual Sharing Allowance of $249 for Life Line Screening services. This allowance helps cover the cost of screenings, making it more affordable to take advantage of these preventive health measures.

How to Use Your Sharing Allowance

1. Schedule an Appointment: Visit lifelinescreening.com to schedule your screening. You can book online, by phone, or via mail.
2. Attend the Screening: Go to the designated location on your appointment date and complete the selected screenings.
3. Submit for Sharing: Submit the expenses to ShareWELL Health after your screening.

Preventive health screenings are a vital part of maintaining good health and well-being. Using your annual Sharing Allowance towards Life Line Screening services, you can take proactive steps to monitor your health and address potential issues early.

For more information and resources, visit our website or contact us directly.

The post Boost Your Health With Preventive Services & LifeLine Screening appeared first on ShareWELL.

The Benefits Puzzle: A Smarter, More Affordable Approach

Managing healthcare can seem overwhelming, but relying on just one company to handle everything isn’t always the best solution. Although it may seem straightforward, relying on a single plan and provider often results in higher costs and subpar customer service. A more strategic option is available in today’s healthcare environment, using multiple plans to better meet your needs.

Think of it like putting together a healthcare puzzle. Each piece, from Health Share to preventive plans, labs, virtual care, and more, serves a specific purpose. By thoughtfully combining these options, you can create a custom healthcare plan that works best for you or your employees.

Here’s why using several plans can be the key to more innovative, more affordable healthcare.

Customization That Meets Individual Needs

Healthcare is not one-size-fits-all, especially for small businesses or families where everyone has different needs. Multiple healthcare plans allow you to handpick coverage options based on your requirements. For example, you might use one plan for your basic health needs and another for dental or vision coverage. Each employee can mix and match based on their own specific needs.

The plans and pieces we’re discussing can include Health Share, preventive plans, copay plans, virtual care, labs, medications, dental, vision, and accident coverage. Some people might only need one or two of these, while others might combine several to ensure comprehensive care. This flexibility is especially valuable in small businesses, where employees may have varying needs, from managing chronic conditions to requiring certain providers for routine preventive care.

Importance of Using Plans Correctly

Understanding when to use your plan’s ID card and when to present as self-pay is a key part of managing multiple healthcare plans effectively. When using ShareWELL, members should always present as self-pay at the time of service and request to receive the bill directly. This applies to any service intended to be shared through ShareWELL, such as emergency room visits, surgery, that exceeds the member’s Unshared Amount. These bills are submitted by the member directly to ShareWELL through a Sharing Request.

In contrast, services covered under supplemental plans, such as preventive care or copay plans, dental, or vision, follow a traditional process where you present your ID card, and the provider sends the claim directly to the plan. Using your ID card in a situation that should be self-pay can lead to billing delays, additional administrative work, and higher costs for both the member and the ShareWELL community. Following the right steps helps ensure that your care is processed smoothly and your healthcare remains cost-effective and easy to manage.

Medical Bill Claim portal to check claim status when presenting an ID card for Copay or HSA plan. Search for doctors and services (select PHCS Practitioner & Ancillary) for the copay and HSA plan that requires the use of the PHCS network.

Lower Monthly Costs and Reduced Out-of-Pocket Spending

Surprisingly, using multiple plans can result in a significantly lower monthly payment and reduced out-of-pocket spending over the year. At first glance, having several plans might seem to increase your expenses, but the reality is quite the opposite. You avoid paying for unnecessary services bundled into one expensive plan by picking specific coverage options based on your personal or business needs.

For instance, we often purchase a conventional plan that is rarely used, and the deductible is never reached. You can choose Health Share, which has lower costs, and add the other pieces only if needed. This results in a tailored approach that helps you save money with maximized coverage. Many Health Share programs, for instance, pair perfectly with a copay plan or preventive care to give you a way to spend less on healthcare.

Learning Curve, but Greater Rewards

Yes, there’s a learning curve when managing multiple plans. You’ll need to understand how each plan works, what it covers, and when to use it. But this extra effort will reward you with a healthcare system that perfectly fits your lifestyle and financial needs. This approach includes advocacy services by ShareWELL Partners designed to provide the highest level of customer service and assist with the learning curve. Think of it like learning the pieces of a puzzle—you might start with a few key plans like virtual care or preventive care, and add others like accident coverage, labs, or medications as needed.

Once you become familiar with the ins and outs of each plan, you’ll be able to maximize your healthcare benefits while minimizing costs. For instance, understanding when to use your virtual care plan versus going to an in-person provider can save you both time and money.

Conclusion: A Smarter Way to Approach Healthcare

Healthcare doesn’t have to be expensive or frustrating to manage. By choosing multiple plans and customizing them to fit your needs, you can save money and get better coverage. Whether it’s Health Share, preventive care, or adding coverage for medications, dental, or vision, the key is to combine different pieces to form a complete healthcare puzzle that works best for you.

So, don’t settle for a one-size-fits-all approach. By securing advocacy support, tailoring your healthcare, reducing overall costs, and learning the management of multiple plans, you can ensure the best coverage for your needs without overpaying.

General FAQ Overview

For more information or assistance with setting up the best combination of plans, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to help you confidently manage your healthcare puzzle.

The math of a real-life example:

A Traditional Family Plan– $1,500 monthly

comes with a $5,000 deductible

A Customized Approach– $900 monthly

Includes $1,500 UA Health Share, Preventive Copay plan, Dental, Vision, $0 Copay Virtual Urgent Care, and $0 labs.

*The result is more services with little to no out-of-pocket cost and a more comprehensive selection of providers and services.

The post Using Multiple Plans To Manage Your Healthcare appeared first on ShareWELL.

In today’s complex healthcare landscape, navigating insurance networks and understanding coverage can be daunting. However, as a ShareWELL member, you can approach healthcare differently—by becoming a self-pay patient. At first, this idea might seem intimidating. Still, the right support and mindset can simplify your healthcare experience and significantly benefit you, your healthcare providers, and the ShareWELL community.

What is a Self-Pay Patient?

A self-pay patient, sometimes referred to as a cash-pay or an uninsured patient, is an individual who pays for their healthcare expenses out-of-pocket rather than relying on insurance or third-party payers. This approach lets you directly manage and pay for doctor visits, hospital stays, diagnostic tests, medications, and other healthcare-related expenses.

Self-pay patients are responsible for paying the total cost of their medical services directly to healthcare providers. This model applies to uninsured individuals who choose to pay for services themselves.

Why Patients Choose or End Up as Self-Pay Patients

In healthcare systems where insurance is prevalent, some individuals may opt out of using their insurance due to high deductibles or copayments. Others may not have insurance coverage at all. As of 2023, 7.7% of people in the U.S. (approximately 26.5 million individuals) were uninsured. Several factors contribute to this situation, including:

• Job Changes: Leaving a job, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, often results in the loss of employer-sponsored health insurance.
• Self-Employment: Contractors or freelancers running their businesses may not have health insurance.
• Part-Time Work: Part-time employees typically do not receive employer benefits like health insurance.
• Life Events: Various unexpected life events can lead to a lack of insurance coverage.
• Affordable Alternatives: Some individuals switch to more affordable insurance alternatives such as Health Sharing, which provides flexibility and cost savings compared to traditional insurance plans.

The Insurance Dilemma

A common scenario involves patients with high-deductible insurance plans. For example, a patient discovers that their out-of-pocket cost with high deductible insurance will be $8,000, but the self-pay price is $5,000. Unfortunately, due to the provider’s contractual obligations with the insurance network, the patient cannot access the lower self-pay price. This situation highlights the restrictive nature of traditional insurance plans and the benefits of being a self-pay patient.

The Initial Adjustment: Overcoming Fear and Uncertainty

Switching from a traditional insurance model to being a self-pay patient can feel like stepping into the unknown. The safety net of insurance networks and predefined coverage is removed, and you are now responsible for managing your healthcare expenses directly. This transition can be scary, but it’s important to remember that you are not alone in this journey.

At ShareWELL, we understand that this shift requires a period of adjustment. It’s natural to have concerns about cost management, finding fair-cost healthcare providers, and understanding the full scope of your medical expenses. However, these concerns often dissipate as you become more familiar with the self-pay process and realize its benefits.

Simplifying Healthcare: The Self-Pay Advantage

One of the most significant advantages of being a self-pay patient is the simplicity of your healthcare experience. Without the constraints of insurance networks, you have the freedom to choose the healthcare providers and services that best meet your needs. This flexibility allows you to prioritize your health and wellness according to your preferences and requirements.

Direct Relationships with Providers

As a self-pay patient, you can build direct relationships with your healthcare providers. This direct interaction often leads to better communication, personalized care, and a more transparent understanding of your treatment options and costs. Without the interference of insurance companies, you and your providers can focus solely on your health, leading to more effective and efficient care.

Clearer Cost Management

When you are a self-pay patient, the costs of your healthcare services are more transparent. You receive itemized bills outlining the services and their respective costs. This clarity lets you understand precisely what you are paying for, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare. Additionally, you have the opportunity to engage with providers directly, often resulting in cost reductions that are lower than network discounts.

The Role of ShareWELL: Support Every Step of the Way

As you navigate the self-pay model, it’s essential to know that you have the full support of the ShareWELL team. We are experts at helping members navigate healthcare as self-pay patients and have internal tools to find high-quality, fair-cost healthcare nationwide.

Personalized Assistance

The ShareWELL team is dedicated to helping you every step of the way. Whether you need assistance understanding your medical bills, finding fair-cost providers, or submitting a Sharing Request, we are here to support you. We aim to ensure that you feel confident and empowered as a self-pay patient.

Keeping Costs Down: A Collaborative Effort

As a self-pay patient, one of your primary goals is to keep healthcare costs down. Your efforts benefit you, your healthcare providers, and the entire ShareWELL community. Proactively managing your healthcare expenses contributes to a more sustainable and cost-effective healthcare system for everyone involved.

Planned Healthcare

One of the most effective ways to keep costs down as a self-pay patient is through planned healthcare. For procedures like planned surgeries or imaging (not emergency visits), prepaying for these types of healthcare bills in advance often results in a 60-80% reduction in costs. This approach creates a win-win-win scenario:

• The provider knows they will be paid and does not have to chase billing.
• The patient avoids billing issues after the procedure.
• The ShareWELL community saves money.

Being a proactive member of ShareWELL, you can help by informing us of planned or upcoming healthcare needs.

Presenting as a Self-Pay Patient

When you present yourself as a self-pay patient, healthcare providers often offer discounts, primarily when payment is facilitated quickly. The term “negotiation” can make the process sound complex, but with ShareWELL’s support, the process becomes straightforward and effective. By facilitating quick payments, we often achieve cost reductions that are even lower than typical network discounts.

Requesting Itemized Bills

Always request itemized bills from your healthcare providers. Itemized bills break down the costs of each service provided, giving you a clear understanding of what you are being charged for. This transparency allows you to identify any errors or unnecessary charges, ensuring that you only pay for the services you receive.

Embracing a New Healthcare Paradigm

Becoming a self-pay patient with ShareWELL represents a shift towards a more empowered and personalized healthcare experience. While the transition may be challenging at first, the benefits of direct engagement with healthcare providers, transparent cost management, and the support of the ShareWELL community make it a worthwhile endeavor.

Taking Control of Your Health

As a self-pay patient, you can take control of your health in ways that were not possible within the constraints of traditional insurance networks. You can choose the providers and treatments that align with your values and preferences, leading to a more satisfying and effective healthcare experience.

Redefining Healthcare

By embracing the self-pay model, you are helping to redefine healthcare. You are part of a movement prioritizing patient autonomy, transparency, and fairness. Together with the ShareWELL community, you are contributing to a more sustainable and compassionate healthcare system.

The ShareWELL Process: Simplifying Payments and Reimbursements

As a self-pay patient with ShareWELL, you have a unique advantage. Unlike traditional self-pay patients who may have to pay out-of-pocket and wait for reimbursement, ShareWELL offers a more streamlined approach:

1. Collect the Bill: After receiving healthcare services, collect the bill from your provider with any applicable self-pay discounts applied.
2. Submit to ShareWELL: Send the itemized bill to ShareWELL through a Sharing Request.
3. Receive Funds: ShareWELL can provide the necessary funds in different ways, such as by sending them directly to you, your provider, or an instant debit card.

This process ensures that you are not burdened with upfront costs and can manage your healthcare expenses more efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning to a self-pay patient model with ShareWELL may initially seem daunting. Still, the right support and mindset can lead to a simpler, more transparent, and more empowering healthcare experience. The ShareWELL team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that you have the resources and support you need to navigate this new paradigm.

Thank you for being a valued member of the ShareWELL community. We are committed to supporting you on your healthcare journey and helping you achieve your health and wellness goals.

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At ShareWELL, we know healthcare choices can be confusing. Members often ask how Health Sharing works, how it differs from insurance, and how our MEC (Minimum Essential Coverage) plans fit into the picture. This Q&A guide addresses the most common questions so you can feel confident in your membership and the flexibility it provides.

1. Is a Health Share the same as Insurance?

No, a Health Share is not insurance, and that is intentional. Health sharing communities are built around member cost-sharing rather than government-regulated insurance models. This allows them to stay focused on community-driven, transparent care while reducing unnecessary costs.

a. Strong Member Protections

Although Health Shares are not regulated like insurers, organizations such as ShareWELL operate under binding Member Guidelines that are legally enforceable through state contract law. This means that if obligations are not met, members have similar legal protections to those of an insurance policy, without the bureaucratic delays or red tape.

b. How It Works in Practice

For eligible medical sharing requests (e.g., hospitalizations, surgeries), health shares function just like coverage: bills get paid from pooled member funds, often at discounted cash rates. Plus, you get broader access—no narrow networks forcing you to specific doctors; see anyone, anywhere, including out-of-state or abroad.

c. Understanding the Myth of “Guarantees”

The word “guarantee” in insurance advertising can be misleading. No system can promise perfect protection. In fact, large insurers routinely deny claims. UnitedHealthcare, for example, rejected about one in three claims in 2024, often citing “not medically necessary.” Health sharing communities like ShareWELL are transparent about guidelines and emphasize preventive care to keep overall costs manageable for everyone.

d. Affordable and Flexible

Without the Affordable Care Act mandates, Health Shares do not require members to pay for coverage they do not need. This creates savings of 30 to 60 percent compared to traditional insurance plans, often reducing family healthcare costs by thousands each year.

e. A Proven Approach

Health sharing is not new. More than 2.4 million Americans currently participate in Health Sharing communities, which together have shared over 30 billion dollars in medical expenses since 1993. Member satisfaction remains high, averaging 98 percent nationally.

f. ShareWELL’s Member Advantage

ShareWELL goes a step further by prepaying major medical expenses when possible. This eliminates financial stress before procedures and helps members focus fully on recovery.

2. Can I still see my own doctor?

Yes. As a ShareWELL member, you can use any provider anywhere in the country. You are never restricted to a network or forced to switch doctors.

3. How does ShareWELL treat pre-existing conditions?

A pre-existing condition is any illness or injury for which you received treatment, medication, or medical advice within 24 months before your membership began. This also includes any ongoing management of chronic conditions.

• For cancer, the lookback period is 36 months. This includes preventive treatments, medications, or follow-up related to a prior diagnosis.

• Certain conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, and type 2 diabetes, are not considered pre-existing unless hospitalization occurred in the previous 12 months.

A Practical Way to Look at It

Almost everyone has something that could be considered pre-existing. In reality, most of these conditions are common and manageable, not the kind that lead to major expenses or hospital stays. Many are self-managed or require only occasional low-cost visits. Examples might include mild back pain that does not require surgery, small dermatological procedures such as a MOHS treatment that costs under 1,000 dollars when paid as a self-pay patient, or the general aches and pains that come with age.

The key is understanding whether your condition could lead to a significant medical expense in the near future, especially within your first year of membership, when sharing for related medical bills would not be eligible.

If you expect a major cost tied to an ongoing or recent condition, take a moment to calculate whether those potential expenses might outweigh the savings you would receive from joining a Health Share such as ShareWELL. Compare this to the total cost of a traditional insurance plan, including monthly premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance.

For instance, if you know that a surgery or other high-cost treatment is likely soon after joining, a traditional plan may be the better short-term option. However, for individuals and families who are generally healthy or managing stable, low-risk conditions, the lower monthly costs and flexible care options available through ShareWELL can offer meaningful long-term savings and greater freedom in choosing care.

Why This Model Works

This approach keeps monthly costs affordable for the majority of members while still protecting the community from excessive risk. It also makes Health Sharing an excellent fit for people who prioritize preventive care and want the flexibility to choose their own doctors without the high premiums of insurance-based plans.

By doing the math and understanding your personal health outlook, you can determine whether a health share is the right fit for you. Many members find that once they evaluate their likely medical expenses versus what they would spend on traditional coverage, the savings and flexibility make ShareWELL an ideal choice.

4. What does ShareWELL offer for maternity care?

ShareWELL provides one of the most innovative maternity programs in the country. Members can have their entire pregnancy and delivery costs shared for as little as $1,500.

To encourage smart spending, members who keep their maternity expenses within cost guidelines can receive six months of free diapers. ShareWELL also supports natural and homeopathic maternity options, giving families freedom in how they approach childbirth.

Maternity Waiting Period: Conception must occur at least 30 days after your membership begins for maternity expenses to be eligible for sharing. If conception occurs within the first 30 days, or if you are already pregnant at the time of enrollment, maternity-related expenses will not be eligible.

5. Will I have to pay out-of-pocket for major medical expenses?

No. ShareWELL provides prepaid medical cards to cover approved procedures. This means many surgeries and hospital stays are paid before you ever step into the facility. It is a powerful way to eliminate the worry of medical debt and protect members from financial strain.

🩺 Q&A: Understanding MEC Plans and How They Fit with Health Sharing

1. How do MEC plans fit with the ShareWELL Health Share?

MEC plans are designed to complement your health sharing membership. They cover preventive care and lower-cost medical services, typically under $1,500. MEC plans ensure members meet ACA preventive requirements and can provide 100 percent coverage for annual wellness visits, mammograms, and colonoscopies.

The Copay MEC option expands benefits to include primary care visits, specialist consultations, urgent care, lab work, imaging, and prescription coverage with low copays.

2. What provider network do MEC plans use?

The MEC Copay and HSA plans use the PHCS network, one of the largest in the United States, with over 920,000 providers. This network is paired with a Reference-Based Pricing (RBP) model for out-of-network care. Members can see any doctor they choose while still reducing the risk of unexpected or inflated billing.

For major medical needs under the Health Share, provider choice remains completely open.

3. What is a MEC Health Plan?

A Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) plan is designed to meet the Affordable Care Act’s requirement for basic health coverage. MEC plans help individuals and employers avoid ACA penalties while ensuring access to essential preventive services at no cost.

These plans are especially appealing to employers seeking affordable, compliant benefits for their teams. MEC Plus plans, as described by Essential Benefit Administrators, combine preventive care with additional benefits for everyday medical needs such as primary care visits and prescriptions.

4. How does a Third-Party Administrator (TPA) enhance MEC plans?

A Third-Party Administrator, or TPA, such as Alternative Risk Management (ARM), manages administrative functions for employers. This includes processing claims, providing access to provider networks, and offering member support.

Partnering with a TPA allows employers to customize their MEC plans while ensuring smooth administration and responsive service. ARM’s member portal at www.altrisk.com allows members to review claims, ask questions, and access support tools anytime.

✅ The Takeaway

Health sharing with ShareWELL empowers members with freedom, transparency, and affordability. When paired with MEC coverage, members receive both preventive care and major medical support—all without the high costs and restrictions of traditional insurance.

Your health is personal. ShareWELL simply helps you protect it with choice, confidence, and community.

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Making the Switch to ShareWELL: A Positive Change for Employees

Trying something new in healthcare can feel unfamiliar, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t proven. For over 40 years, families have used approaches outside of traditional group plans to save money and gain more control. The real mistake is falling back on a system everyone knows is broken, paying more each month while facing higher costs when care is needed. With ShareWELL as the foundation, members can combine other benefits and solutions to build a smarter, more flexible plan that truly works for their family.

Freedom to Choose Any Clinician

A benefit of ShareWELL is the freedom it offers when choosing healthcare providers that are not limited to small networks that we have become accustomed to navigating. Whether it’s a doctor you’ve been seeing for years or a specialist you need to consult with, you will have more freedom to see the clinicians you choose.

This means you have the freedom to seek out the best care available without worrying about whether a provider is “in-network.” You’re in control of your healthcare decisions and can prioritize quality care over bureaucratic restrictions. This level of autonomy can alleviate the frustration many experience with more rigid healthcare systems, and it’s one of the key reasons employees find ShareWELL appealing.

True Flexibility: Customizing Your Healthcare Package

When we talk about flexibility with ShareWELL, we’re not just referring to the ability to keep your doctor—you also have the freedom to customize your healthcare package by combining ShareWELL with other healthcare-related products. Many employers offer ShareWELL alongside complimentary plans, virtual care, advocacy services, direct primary care, dental, vision, and wellness options, allowing employees to build a healthcare solution that fits their specific needs.

This means that instead of the one-size-fits-all approach typical of traditional plans, you can choose the services that make the most sense for you and your family. For example, you might use ShareWELL for general healthcare needs but opt for an additional wellness plan or extra coverage for specific treatments. This ability to mix and match products allows you to create a more tailored and cost-effective healthcare solution.

This flexibility can also help you avoid paying for services you don’t need. With traditional setups, you may be paying for blanket coverage that doesn’t fit your specific situation. But with the ShareWELL approach, you can decide exactly what’s important to you, saving money while still ensuring you’re fully covered where it matters most.

Lower Cost For Employers and Employees

One of the most appealing aspects of ShareWELL is the potential for significantly lower monthly contributions. As a community-based system, ShareWELL allows members to share healthcare costs, which often leads to lower overall expenses compared to traditional plans. This sharing model reduces the financial burden of healthcare without compromising the quality of care.

For employees, this means more manageable healthcare costs, allowing them to allocate savings toward other financial goals. However, the benefits go beyond individual savings—employers also stand to save. Employers can reinvest those savings into their benefits packages by paying less for healthcare. For instance, if an employer is paying half as much for healthcare through ShareWELL, they may be able to cover a more significant portion of other benefits, like retirement contributions or wellness programs, which further enhances the overall compensation package for employees.

This cost-saving structure creates a win-win situation: employees get the flexibility and coverage they need, while employers can expand their benefits offerings without increasing costs. And with ShareWELL’s transparent, predictable costs, there are no hidden fees or unexpected charges to worry about.

Different Doesn’t Mean Worse—It Often Means Better

Choosing a different path in healthcare doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or security; it means rethinking what’s possible. At ShareWELL, we believe doing healthcare differently means doing it better for most people. Consider the concept of an Unshared Amount, for example, it functions similarly to a deductible but differs, offering a more practical approach to out-of-pocket expenses. Rather than paying high monthly premiums that cover a wide range of services you might never use, ShareWELL allows members to pay a lower monthly contribution and take care of smaller expenses themselves. Instead of being locked into a provider network, members can self-pay and access care from any clinician they trust. This model puts control in your hands rather than behind-the-scenes processes dictated by insurance companies. And because ShareWELL is a nonprofit community, the focus is on supporting members, not maximizing shareholder returns. It’s a transparent, values-driven approach that aligns better with how people actually want to experience healthcare.

Understanding Limitations: Pre-Existing Conditions

While ShareWELL offers considerable benefits, it’s important to understand that it may not be the best fit for every employee or family member. The flexibility and cost savings of ShareWELL come with some limitations, particularly when it comes to pre-existing conditions. ShareWELL may have restrictions on coverage for certain pre-existing medical conditions, and these limitations could impact how well it serves the needs of specific individuals.

For some families, this might mean that purchasing a traditional plan, which tends to offer more immediate and comprehensive coverage for pre-existing conditions, is a better choice for specific family members. This blend of solutions—using ShareWELL for most families while choosing a traditional plan for those who need it—helps balance costs and coverage.

Enhancing ShareWELL with Additional Coverage Options

It’s common for employers offering ShareWELL to pair the membership with other benefits to enhance the overall healthcare package. These complementary plans may include coverage for preventive care, telemedicine, copay options for routine doctor visits, prescription discount programs, or even the ability to contribute to and use a Health Savings Account (HSA). This creates a hybrid approach, where employees get the flexibility and cost savings of ShareWELL while still having access to familiar benefits that help cover everyday healthcare expenses. By blending these options, employers can offer a more comprehensive benefits package that meets diverse employee needs while still keeping costs lower than traditional group plans.

A Transparent and Supportive Community

At the heart of ShareWELL is its community-based approach with advocacy support for all its members. Members contribute to one another’s medical expenses, fostering a supportive and transparent environment. Unlike traditional plans that can feel impersonal, ShareWELL encourages a sense of connection and shared responsibility among its members. You’re not just another policy number—you’re part of a group working together to manage healthcare costs effectively.

A More Personal Approach to Healthcare

ShareWELL offers employees the chance to take control of their healthcare in a flexible, personalized, and cost-effective way. By understanding the limitations, particularly regarding pre-existing conditions, employees can make informed decisions about whether ShareWELL is the right fit for them and their families.

This customizable approach—where you can mix and match healthcare products—empowers you to create a healthcare solution tailored to your needs. While it may take more thought upfront, the potential for savings and freedom of choice makes it a compelling alternative to traditional group plans.

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