Welcome to the Zion HealthShare community! Whether you’re new to health sharing, or simply looking for a fresh approach to healthcare, understanding how the leading health share in the country works can offer needed insight into your healthcare options. Navigating a new healthcare system can be overwhelming, but here at Zion HealthShare we seek to keep things transparent, and easy to understand. In this guide, we’ll share five essential tips to help you get the most out of your Zion HealthShare membership.
1. Understand Your Zion HealthShare Membership
It’s essential to grasp the fundamental difference between health insurance and health sharing. Unlike traditional insurance, Zion HealthShare is a community-based approach where members share in each other’s medical costs. We act as a facilitator, ensuring funds are managed responsibly to meet member needs.
Our members agree to specific guidelines outlined in our Member Guidelines. These guidelines govern how monthly contributions are used to assist members with eligible medical expenses. Once approved, sharing requests are fulfilled through contributions from the community.
The health share model functions by members contributing a set monthly amount based on age, chosen Initial Unshareable Amount (IUA), and family size. These contributions form a pool from which sharing requests are paid. The IUA is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before the community begins sharing in your medical expenses. You can select an IUA of $1,000, $2,500, or $5,000. Generally, a lower IUA corresponds to a higher monthly contribution.
A sharing request is submitted by a member when they seek financial assistance from the community for an eligible medical expense. Once approved, the community shares in the cost beyond the member’s IUA.
2. Shop Around for Your Healthcare Services
Enjoy the freedom to choose any healthcare provider. Since Zion HealthShare is not insurance, we don’t restrict you to a specific network. You have the flexibility to select providers that best suit your needs. As a Zion HealthShare member, you’ll present as a self-pay patient, which can lead to potential cost savings.
To maximize savings, compare prices for services like lab tests, imaging, and surgeries. Consider outpatient clinics and surgery centers as more affordable alternatives to hospitals in many cases.
Remember: Price doesn’t always equate to quality. Your assign Zion HealthShare Medical Advocate can assist you in finding affordable yet high-quality care. Our commitment to price transparency empowers you to make informed decisions
3. Get Itemized Statements
Always request an itemized copy of your bill after an appointment or procedure. An itemized bill is essential for submitting a sharing request. Without an itemized bill, it’s difficult to identify and dispute potential errors. This detailed breakdown can help you verify that you were billed correctly and identify any unfair or incorrect charges. Remember, according to the Medical Billing Advocates of America, up to 80% of medical bills contain errors! To obtain an itemized bill, ask for one at the time of service or contact the billing department after your appointment. Our Member Care team is available to assist you with any questions about your Zion HealthShare Membership or to help you understand your bill.
4. Navigating Health Facilities
Consider urgent care clinics or Primestin Care for non-emergency after hours care. Research shows that over 17% of ER visits are unnecessary, which adds up to $4.4 billion in avoidable costs. Urgent care clinics often offer shorter wait times, lower costs, and convenient hours compared to traditional emergency rooms. They can treat a variety of non-emergency conditions such as minor injuries, illnesses, and infections.
For members who are enrolled in Primestin Care (Individual & Family Membership and Memberships through Companies & Organizations who have opted in), there is 24/7 access to board-certified doctors via phone or video conferencing. This no-cost option can be a convenient solution for non-emergency medical concerns.
5. Prioritize Your Health
Prioritize your health for a healthier you and wallet. Becoming a better healthcare consumer starts with taking care of yourself. Make a commitment to eating healthy, getting regular exercise, and managing stress. These simple steps can significantly improve your overall well-being and potentially lower your healthcare costs.
Did you know that up to 40 percent of annual deaths from leading causes like heart disease, cancer, and stroke are preventable, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)? By making positive lifestyle changes, you can reduce your risk of chronic diseases and enjoy a higher quality of life.
If you’re ready for a simpler, more supportive way to manage medical expenses, explore Zion HealthShare today. Join our growing community or call (888) 920-8466 to learn more.
Zion HealthShare is not an insurance company. Neither this publication nor membership in Zion HealthShare are offered by an insurance company. Visit ZionHealthShare.org to view your state-specific notice.
Current as of: December 18, 2025