When you think of this time of year, the scent of pumpkin spice and cozy scenes of gathering with family and friends might be the first things that pop into your mind. But this is also the time of year that you may be making important decisions for you and your family’s healthcare for the upcoming twelve months.
That’s right. Open enrollment is almost here, and that makes this a great time to review your family’s needs. If you’re already an Altrua HealthShare Member, you likely know that with Altrua HealthShare, you’re not limited to the open enrollment season to become a Member; you can become a Member at any point in the year. However, if you’re not yet a Member, this is the time of year you might have been waiting for to make a switch from your current healthcare option.
(You can learn more about open enrollment and how to best navigate it here)
A health share could be the perfect fit for both your budget and your needs, but it’s important to understand what a health share is and how it works when making your decision. Whether you’re already a member of a health share or not, check out these ideas for reviewing your family’s healthcare approach.
Understand the difference with a health share. A health share is known as a health care sharing ministry. A health care sharing ministry, or HCSM as they’re known, is different than traditional insurance. A health share is a group of people who share in each other’s eligible medical needs. To be a health share recognized by state and federal officials, the health share generally must be a 501(c)3 nonprofit ministry organized around a shared set of beliefs. Among health shares, Altrua HealthShare is unique in that eligible medical needs are shared in from a Member escrow account.
Taking care is one way to show your love. Another way is letting people take good care of you when you need it.
– Fred Rogers
Statement of Standards: Altrua HealthShare Members agree to a Statement of Standards, which includes agreements about lifestyle choices and healthy living. Abiding by these choices and understanding that the health share will not share in medical needs arising from unhealthy lifestyle decisions is an important part of evaluating whether a health share is right for you. Altrua HealthShare can bring you such an affordable approach to healthcare because Members are committed to healthy lifestyles. For example, Altrua HealthShare does not share in medical needs arising from tobacco and illegal drug use. You can review the Statement of Standards here.
Membership Guidelines: Because health shares work a little differently than what you may be used to, take some time to read thoroughly through the Membership Guidelines specific to the membership you currently have or are considering. Not all memberships share in the same medical needs, and it’s essential to fully understand what is eligible for sharing, what isn’t, how to communicate with your health care provider’s office about your membership, waiting periods for sharing in certain conditions, and more. When you take the time to educated and equip yourself to understand the membership you are part of, it makes the process of being with a health share all the easier.
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:2
Eligibility: As you consider which level of membership is the right fit for your family, consider your season of life and what needs you might have in the future. Altrua HealthShare has a membership available called MyShare, in which you can customize your membership for your needs for things like maternity, cancer sharing, and more. Or you may find that one of Altrua HealthShare’s prebuilt memberships best fits your needs.
Budget: Health shares usually have more affordable options for you and your family. With Altrua HealthShare, you can select a level of membership that best fits your financial goals.
Ask all the questions you need to: When you’re making choices for your family’s healthcare, your questions are important! As you review your current membership if you’re already part of Altrua HealthShare, or if you are considering becoming part of the Altrua HealthShare Membership and have questions, we’re here to help. For any questions or concerns, please call 1.833. 3-ALTRUA (258782) to speak with a Member Services Representative.
With the open enrollment seaon starting in just a couple of weeks, get ahead of the game by reviewing your choices and finding the best fit for you and your family. If you’re already an Altrua HealthShare Member, take some time to read through your guidelines and refresh your memory. If you’re not yet an Altrua HealthShare Member, we’re available to talk through your options and to evaluate if Altrua HealthShare could be just the affordable, flexible option you’ve been looking for.