10 Facts About Does Medi-Share Have Medicare Supplement Plans
You won’t find traditional Medicare supplement (Medigap) plans through Medi-Share because it’s a faith-based health care sharing ministry, not insurance.
Medi-Share offers an alternative approach to help with some Medicare-related expenses, but it does not provide Medicare supplement plans. If you’re wondering, “Does Medi-Share have Medicare supplement plans?” the answer is no—they operate differently from typical insurance.
Medi-Share 65+ helps cover some Medicare costs like deductibles, copays, and coinsurance, but doesn’t cover everything or replace Medicare benefits. You must be 65+, enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, and agree to their faith commitments.
Costs are generally lower than Medigap premiums, with added community support.
To understand how it all works, keep exploring the details. Medi-Share provides a unique way to share medical costs within a faith-based community, but it’s important to know its limitations compared to traditional Medicare supplement plans.
Key Takeaways
- Medi-Share 65+ is a faith-based health sharing program, not a traditional Medicare Supplement insurance plan.
- It supplements Medicare costs by sharing eligible expenses after a $500 annual household contribution.
- Medi-Share does not cover the Medicare Part B deductible or prescription drugs like Medigap plans do.
- It operates on biblical principles and community sharing, rather than insurance guarantees or state regulation.
- Medi-Share offers lower monthly contributions starting around $99, but requires faith commitments and lifestyle adherence.
What Is Medi-Share 65+ And How Does It Relate To Medicare Supplements?

Although Medi-Share 65+ isn’t an insurance plan, it serves as a faith-based health sharing community that helps supplement your Medicare coverage by sharing costs for eligible expenses after you contribute $500 annually.
Unlike traditional Medicare Supplement plans, Medi-Share 65+ operates through a health sharing model rather than conventional insurance. It focuses on sharing costs related to Medicare-covered services, such as deductibles and coinsurance, but doesn’t cover all expenses like standard Medicare Supplement options do.
If you rely on Medicaid or traditional insurance, you’ll find Medi-Share 65+ is quite different, as it’s not regulated like insurance and won’t replace Medicare or Medicaid benefits. Instead, it’s designed to work alongside Medicare, offering a faith-based approach to managing healthcare costs.
How Does Medi-Share 65+ Work As A Health Care Sharing Ministry?
When you join Medi-Share 65+, you become part of a faith-based community where members share medical costs rather than buying traditional insurance. Your monthly contributions go into a shared account that helps cover eligible expenses for everyone involved.
This cost-sharing model relies on mutual support and biblical principles to manage health care expenses together.
Cost Sharing Model
Since Medi-Share 65+ isn’t traditional insurance, you’ll participate in a health care sharing ministry where members contribute monthly to cover eligible medical expenses. This cost sharing model requires you to meet a $500 Annual Household Portion (AHP) before sharing begins.
Here’s how it works for you:
- You pay monthly contributions into a Medi-Share-approved account. After meeting your AHP, Medi-Share helps cover deductibles and copays for Medicare-covered services. Funds from the account are used to reimburse qualifying medical bills, including hospital stays and durable medical equipment.
- Eligible expenses are shared among members, excluding certain conditions not covered by the program. This approach focuses on sharing costs rather than guaranteeing coverage like traditional Medicare Supplement plans.
Faith-Based Community
How does Medi-Share 65+ work as a health care sharing ministry? It operates within a faith-based community where members commit to a shared Statement of Faith and agree to live by biblical standards. This Christian health model isn’t traditional insurance; instead, you and others make community contributions that pool into a shared account.
After you meet an annual household portion of $500, eligible medical expenses are paid directly from these funds. The emphasis here is on mutual support, generosity, and faith, creating a healthcare experience rooted in biblical principles. By joining, you participate in a community that supports one another’s medical needs through shared responsibility and a commitment to Christian values rather than relying on conventional insurance policies.
Which Medical Costs Does Medi-Share 65+ Share After Medicare Pays?
Wondering which medical costs Medi-Share 65+ helps with after Medicare pays? Medi-Share 65+ steps in to share eligible Medicare-covered medical costs once Medicare has paid its part and you’ve met your Annual Household Portion (AHP) of $500.
This faith-based community sharing program helps with sharing expenses that Medicare doesn’t fully cover. Specifically, it shares:
- Deductibles you owe under Medicare plans
- Copayments required for doctor visits or procedures
- Coinsurance costs after Medicare’s payment
- Medicare-approved expenses for hospital stays, outpatient services, and durable medical equipment
What Coverage Gaps Does Medi-Share 65+ Address And What Does It Exclude?
Although Medi-Share 65+ helps cover many out-of-pocket costs after Medicare pays, it doesn’t fill every gap. It primarily shares costs like deductibles, copays, and coinsurance for services covered under Original Medicare (Parts A and B) once you meet a $500 annual household portion.
However, it doesn’t cover the Medicare Part B deductible, prescription drugs, or services outside Medicare’s approval. Unlike a traditional Medicare Supplement, Medi-Share 65+ won’t handle all coverage gaps, especially for specialized treatments or non-Medicare-approved expenses.
It also excludes conditions tied to alcohol or drug abuse. Keep in mind, Medi-Share 65+ doesn’t replace Medicaid or other assistance for healthcare costs.
Who Is Eligible To Join Medi-Share 65+ And What Faith Commitments Are Required?
To join Medi-Share 65+, you need to be 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. You’ll also have to agree with the community’s Statement of Faith, which includes beliefs in the Trinity and living by biblical principles.
Meeting these faith commitments is essential to qualify and participate in the program.
Eligibility Criteria Overview
If you want to join Medi-Share 65+, you’ll need to be at least 65 years old and enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. Meeting these Medicare enrollment requirements is just the start. You’ll also have to satisfy other Medi-Share qualifications and community standards to be eligible.
Here’s a quick eligibility criteria overview:
- Be 65 or older with active Medicare Parts A and B coverage.
- Complete the online application and submit required documents like your Medicare card.
- Agree to abide by Medi-Share’s Statement of Faith and live according to biblical community standards.
- Pass a review ensuring you meet eligibility requirements including lifestyle choices from the past year.
These steps ensure you fit within Medi-Share’s faith-based shared support model.
Required Faith Commitments
What faith commitments do you need to make to join Medi-Share 65+? To qualify, you must affirm belief in the Trinity and Jesus Christ’s divinity, live by biblical standards, and support the Christian community through active shared faith participation.
Membership eligibility also requires abstaining from tobacco, alcohol, and illegal drugs for at least 12 months before enrolling. You’re expected to uphold Medi-Share’s biblical principles and support others in the community.
| Requirement | Details | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Statement of Faith | Belief in Trinity and Jesus’ divinity | Confirms shared faith |
| Lifestyle Commitment | No tobacco, alcohol, illegal drugs | Aligns with biblical standards |
| Community Participation | Active involvement in Christian community | Strengthens membership eligibility |
| Mutual Support | Support fellow members | Upholds biblical principles |
Can You Use Medi-Share 65+ Alongside Medicare Advantage Or Part D Plans?
Although you might be considering different coverage options, Medi-Share 65+ is designed specifically to work only with Original Medicare and can’t be combined with Medicare Advantage or Part D plans. This means if you want to use Medi-Share 65+, you must have Medicare Eligibility for Original Medicare (Parts A and B) but cannot enroll in Medicare Advantage or standalone Part D Plans simultaneously.
Here’s why:
- Medi-Share 65+ supplements Original Medicare—not Medicare Advantage or Part D.
- It doesn’t coordinate with managed care plans like Medicare Advantage.
- It lacks prescription drug coverage, so Part D Plans aren’t compatible.
- Combining these plans violates Medi-Share’s program structure and faith-based sharing.
If you want a faith-based supplement, Medi-Share 65+ only fits with Original Medicare, not Medicare Supplement Plans tied to Advantage or Part D coverage.
How Much Does Medi-Share 65+ Cost Compared To Traditional Medigap Plans?
When comparing costs, you’ll find Medi-Share 65+ monthly premiums are generally lower than traditional Medigap plans, starting at $99 for ages 65-74. Keep in mind, Medi-Share also requires a $500 annual household contribution, unlike most Medigap plans.
Understanding these fees helps you weigh the affordability between the two options.
Monthly Premium Comparison
If you’re comparing costs for healthcare coverage after 65, Medi-Share 65+ offers a more affordable monthly premium than most traditional Medigap Plan G options. Here’s how they stack up:
- Medi-Share 65+ charges $99 monthly premiums for ages 65-74 and $150 for 75+, which is often less than traditional Medigap’s $150-$250 range.
- Traditional Medigap Plan G premiums remain consistent regardless of your health, while Medi-Share’s rates vary mainly by age and community factors.
- Unlike Medicare Advantage plans, Medi-Share operates on a community sharing model instead of standard insurance.
- Medi-Share 65+ provides a faith-based, lower-cost alternative, helping reduce your overall insurance costs compared to typical Medicare Supplement Plan G and traditional Medigap options.
Additional Fees Overview
Beyond the monthly premiums, it’s important to take into account additional fees and cost structures when comparing Medi-Share 65+ to traditional Medigap plans. Medi-Share charges a $50 application fee and a $2 monthly administrative fee, which Medigap plans typically don’t. You’ll also face a $500 Annual Household Portion (AHP) before cost-sharing begins, unlike fixed deductibles and co-insurance in Medigap.
While Medi-Share’s premiums are generally lower and fixed for 10 years if you join at 65, it doesn’t cover prescription drugs or Medicare Part B deductibles, possibly increasing your out-of-pocket costs.
| Fee Type | Medi-Share 65+ | Traditional Medigap |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | $50 | Usually none |
| Monthly Premiums | $99-$150 | Higher, may increase yearly |
| Deductibles/Co-insurance | $500 AHP, no co-insurance | Fixed deductibles & co-insurance |
When Can You Enroll And How To Apply For Medi-Share 65+?
The ideal time to apply for Medi-Share 65+ is during your initial Medicare enrollment period, which starts three months before you turn 65 and lasts until three months after. This window guarantees a smooth enrollment and helps you avoid gaps in coverage.
To apply, follow these steps:
1. Complete the online application process on the Medi-Share website during the Medicare enrollment period. 2. Submit required documentation, such as your Medicare card and proof of identity. 3. Verify eligibility based on age, Medicare enrollment, and community standards.
If you miss this period, apply during the annual open enrollment from October 15 to December 7, though coverage may be limited until requirements are met.
Following these steps guarantees timely enrollment and compliance with Medi-Share’s guidelines.
How Does Community Support Enhance The Member Experience With Medi-Share 65+?
While maneuvering healthcare can feel overwhelming, Medi-Share 65+ offers more than just financial assistance—it provides a supportive community that helps you feel connected and cared for. This community support, rooted in faith-based shared community values, enhances your member experience by encouraging prayer, mutual aid, and emotional strength. Unlike a typical Medicare supplement, Medi-Share 65+ emphasizes compassionate involvement, helping you manage healthcare costs together.
Here’s how community support enriches your journey:
| Aspect | Impact on Member Experience |
|---|---|
| Faith-based Sharing | Builds trust and shared purpose |
| Prayer & Encouragement | Boosts emotional well-being |
| Community Events | Fosters connection and belonging |
| Cost Sharing | Eases healthcare expenses |
| Healthy Lifestyle | Promotes adherence through support |
You benefit from a caring environment that truly supports your health and finances.
Why Isn’t Medi-Share 65+ A Traditional Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan?
Although Medi-Share 65+ helps with healthcare costs, it isn’t a traditional Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan because it operates as a faith-based health sharing ministry rather than an insurance policy. Unlike typical Medigap or Medicare supplement insurance plans, Medi-Share functions through community health sharing, not contractual claims.
Medi-Share 65+ aids healthcare costs but isn’t a traditional Medicare Supplement insurance plan.
Here’s why it’s different:
- It doesn’t cover all Medicare benefits or fill every gap like Medigap plans do.
- It excludes coverage for Medicare Part D prescriptions and the Part B deductible.
- Contributions are shared among members, not managed as insurance premiums.
- It’s not regulated by state insurance authorities, unlike traditional Medicare supplement insurance plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Medi-Share a Good Supplement for Medicare?
Medi-Share can be a good supplement to Medicare if you’re looking for a faith-based, community-supported way to help with some out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copayments.
However, it won’t cover everything Medicare does, and it doesn’t include Part D or the Part B deductible.
If you want all-inclusive coverage and full peace of mind, you might find traditional Medicare supplement plans more reliable for your needs.
What Is the Downside to Medi-Share?
Oh, you’ll love the surprise when Medi-Share doesn’t cover your big medical bills like a traditional plan would. The downside? You’re on your own for Medicare Part B deductibles and prescription drugs.
Plus, it’s not insurance, so there’s no guarantee your claims get paid. If you’re okay risking uncovered expenses or exclusions, like alcohol-related illnesses or motorcycle injuries, then Medi-Share might just be your “perfect” health solution.
What Does Medi-Share Not Cover?
Medi-Share won’t cover your Medicare Part D prescription drugs or the Medicare Part B deductible, so you’ll have to pay those yourself. It also excludes medical issues related to alcohol or drug use and won’t cover anything outside Medicare-approved treatments, like elective or cosmetic surgeries.
How Does Medi-Share Work for Seniors?
You might think Medi-Share works like traditional insurance for seniors, but it’s actually a cost-sharing community. When you join, after paying a $500 Annual Household Portion, your eligible Medicare expenses like copays and coinsurance get shared among members. You contribute monthly to a communal fund, which covers approved costs Medicare doesn’t fully pay.
Keep in mind, it’s faith-based and has lifestyle guidelines you’ll need to follow.
Conclusion
So, while Medi-Share 65+ isn’t your typical Medicare supplement plan, it offers a unique way to navigate healthcare with a supportive community by your side. If you’re comfortable blending faith with your health choices, this sharing ministry could gently fill some gaps Medicare leaves behind.
It’s not a perfect fit for everyone, but if you’re seeking a more personal, faith-inspired approach, Medi-Share 65+ might just be the invigorating alternative you didn’t know you needed. For those wondering, Medi-Share does not offer traditional Medicare supplement plans, but its 65+ program provides a faith-based option that can complement your healthcare needs.