The surge of people switching from insurance to HealthShare membership has substantially increased their visibility. While many might perceive HealthShares as a recent development, they have a considerable history. Knowing the origins of HealthShare organizations can enhance understanding of their function, their sharing mechanisms, and whether they align with individual requirements.
Why look at HealthShare history?
HealthShares are gaining traction as life gets more expensive. Over the past decade, health insurance costs have soared, but so too have expenses for housing, utilities, education, and food. It’s a juggling act, and some families must decide which ball to drop—oftentimes, health insurance. This choice is understandable since many policyholders rarely use the services covered by their insurance policies. But unexpected medical events can occur and most consumers want to plan for that without spending nearly a quarter of their salary. As a result, many healthcare consumers are looking for alternatives like HealthShare membership
Ancient origins
Although HealthShares are neither brand new nor very old in the context of American history, their philosophical roots date back to biblical times. Many HealthShares, are religious, often citing Paul’s instructions to “bear one another’s burdens” as a guiding principle. The structures of HealthShares might be relatively recent, but they operate in pursuit of age-old goals. Religious HealthShares take pride in this enduring heritage.
HealthShares in the 19th century
While HealthShares aren’t new, it’s difficult to trace the exact history of HealthShares in the United States. Sharing ministries began in Amish and Mennonite worship communities roughly 100 years ago. Members of congregations would donate money to a pool dedicated to helping other members pay for healthcare. Since these programs weren’t formal, and seem to have been created for micro-groups, it’s difficult to pinpoint specific dates. Over several decades, the concept evolved into more organized ministries better equipped to help more people.
The momentum for HealthShares picked up significantly in the early 1980s, when a pastor in Ohio was in a car accident. His congregation rallied to pool funds for his medical bills, managing to raise enough money to pay the bills in 45 days. This event was the catalyst for the establishment of the first formally organized HealthShare, Christian Healthcare Ministries.
HealthShares from 1981 to today
Claiming its inception in 1981, Christian Healthcare Ministries holds the distinction of being the oldest HealthShare in the United States. The 1980s and 1990s saw another surge of growth, and again in the 2010s. The distribution of HealthShares appears to be split between those established in the 80s and 90s and those founded in the last decade.
As for now, there’s no sign that HealthShares are slowing down anytime soon.
