If you’ve ever had a health insurance plan, you’ve probably heard the term “pre-existing condition.” While policies vary, a pre-existing condition is generally any health issue or diagnosis a person had before enrolling in a new health plan.
For example, if you were diagnosed with asthma before enrolling, that asthma would generally be considered a pre-existing condition. The same applies to conditions such as diabetes, surgeries, or other ongoing care needs.
While many health insurance plans now cover pre-existing conditions, the concept remains important when evaluating healthcare options. At Zion HealthShare, we use the term “pre-membership medical conditions” to describe conditions that existed before a member joined the community.
Understanding “pre-membership medical conditions”
A pre-membership medical condition is anything where a member has experienced one or more of the following: been examined, been diagnosed, taken medication, had symptoms, a personal history of or known increased risk of conditions that may arise or worsen in pregnancy, or received medical treatment within the 24 months prior to their membership start date.
Sharing requests related to pre-membership medical conditions are only eligible for sharing if the condition was regarded as cured and did not require treatment or present symptoms for 24 months prior to the membership start date.
Zion HealthShare allows anyone who meets the general membership requirements to join, regardless of their health status. However, certain pre-membership medical conditions may affect which medical expenses are eligible for sharing within the community (more on that later).
We use different terminology because Zion HealthShare is not health insurance and does not “cover” medical expenses in the traditional sense. Instead, eligible medical expenses may be shared among members.
Exceptions for common chronic conditions
Assuming our guideline requirements are met, we make exceptions for three common chronic conditions: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. These exceptions are not automatic and are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Here are the requirements that must be met for the exclusion:
- The member must not have been hospitalized for the condition in the last year (at least 12 months before joining)
- The condition must be actively managed through medication, diet, or lifestyle changes
- There must be no indication of recent, severe complications related to the condition
To learn more about exclusions, our official Pre-Membership Medical Conditions Guidelines document is a helpful reference.
How the waiting period and phase-in structure work
For pre-membership medical conditions, Zion HealthShare applies a structured phase-in approach. This helps balance access for members while maintaining fairness across the community.
Here’s how it works:
- Year 1: Waiting period for pre-membership conditions
- Year 2: Eligible for sharing up to $25,000
- Year 3: Eligible for sharing up to $50,000
- Year 4 and beyond: Eligible for sharing up to $125,000 per membership year
If you’ve been an active member for four years or more, you may be eligible for sharing up to $125,000 in any 12-month membership period. This maximum amount resets each membership year per sharing request.
Factors to consider ahead of joining
Becoming a member of a health-sharing community like Zion HealthShare has certain advantages. It might be a great option depending on your health needs, financial situation, and expectations for managing medical expenses. In fact, new research indicates that more freelancers are exploring health shares in 2026.
For many members of health-sharing communities, monthly costs are often lower than traditional insurance premiums, and the pricing structure is often more transparent. Our members often find that healthshare membership guidelines are much easier to follow than insurance plans. They also appreciate the community-based model that allows members to contribute to other members’ medical needs rather than pay premiums to an insurance company.
If you’re on the fence about joining, take a look at the Member Guidelines and consider your current health conditions and treatment needs, as well as your broader healthcare priorities. Each healthshare is different; for example, some offer discounts on medications, while others do not share toward prescription costs at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is Zion HealthShare the same as health insurance?
No, Zion HealthShare is not health insurance and does not "cover" medical expenses. Eligible expenses may be shared according to our Member Guidelines . -
Can I join Zion HealthShare with pre-membership medical conditions?
Yes, you can join Zion HealthShare, as health status does not affect eligibility. However, some pre-membership medical conditions have sharing limits. -
When does sharing begin for pre-membership medical conditions?
After the waiting period, with phased limits over time. Currently, our waiting period is one year. In year two, members may be eligible for sharing up to $25,000 per sharing request. In year three, that amount increases to $50,000. The maximum amount you may be eligible for sharing is $125,000 per sharing request after four years of active membership. -
Are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes always pre-membership medical conditions?
These conditions are not always considered pre-membership medical conditions. If the guideline conditions are met, they may qualify for exceptions. -
Is Zion HealthShare a good fit if I have an ongoing medical condition?
This is a highly personal decision that largely depends on your specific care needs and how well our phase-in structure meets them. Reviewing the Member Guidelines can help you determine whether Zion HealthShare is a good fit for your situation.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Megan McDonough
Megan Eileen McDonough is a health and wellness writer with 10+ years of experience in mental health, women’s health, postpartum care, and adolescent health. Her work has been featured in Teen Vogue, CURE, Travel + Leisure, Success Magazine, and more. Megan is a dual citizen and splits her time between London and the Washington, D.C. area.
Current as of: August 19, 2026
Zion HealthShare operates as a non-profit medical cost-sharing community. We are not insurance and cannot operate in the state of Washington. Please visit https://zionhealthshare.org/disclosures/state-notices/ for state notices.