Open Enrollment is the annual period when individuals can enroll in or make changes to their health insurance coverage. This typically occurs for a limited time each year and is an important time for individuals and families to make informed decisions about your insurance options. Whether you’re looking to switch plans, add family members, or enroll in coverage for the first time, open enrollment is your chance to ensure you have the right health insurance protection. During this time, many individuals and families wonder if they have access to the best options at reasonable prices. In this blog we’ll talk about open enrollment, and how a health share membership may be a better alternative to traditional insurance.
Understanding Open Enrollment
During open enrollment time, anyone can enroll in coverage, and it is designed to provide everyone with an opportunity to review and adjust their coverage. After open enrollment ends, a change in coverage can only happen in the case of a qualifying life event like losing a job or getting married.
You can typically obtain health insurance through two primary channels:
- Employer-Sponsored Coverage: Many employers offer health insurance plans as part of their benefits package. Open enrollment for employer-sponsored plans usually follows a specific timeline set by the company. Some employers may offer assistance by contributing to employee premiums or providing health savings account (HSA) contributions.
- Health Insurance Marketplace: If you’re self-employed, unemployed, or not eligible for employer-sponsored coverage, you can explore plans through the marketplace. This government run platform offers various plans with different levels of coverage and costs. More information about other coverage options can be found here.
When reviewing employer-sponsored or marketplace insurance options, there can be a lot of confusing terms and uncertainty in what is actually included and covered. Many people worry about the cost of monthly premiums, copays, and deductibles. While the Affordable Care Act offers some protections and aids in providing access to affordable insurance options to more people based upon income levels, the cost of insurance can still be a burden. Thankfully, more options are available with the most significant alternative being health share organizations.
Considering a Different Approach? Explore Health Sharing
If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional health insurance, consider a health share organization like Zion HealthShare. Health shares are not insurance, but rather a community-based program where members contribute monthly to help cover each other’s medical expenses. Health shares tend to boast lower costs due to their non-profit nature. A health share membership works differently than a traditional insurance plan. Visit our blog It’s More Than an Alternative to Insurance for a more in-depth description of health shares.
Why Choose Zion HealthShare?
Zion HealthShare has reinvented the cost-sharing experience, making it simpler, more accessible, and easier to use. We welcome members from all walks of life, fostering a diverse community without regard for religious affiliation. Enjoy the freedom to choose any healthcare provider without network restrictions, giving you control over your care. Experience quick turnaround times for sharing requests, providing financial relief when you need it most. With no annual or lifetime sharing limits, you can focus on your health without worrying about financial burdens. We also encourage healthy living practices to promote overall well-being for our members. Join Zion HealthShare and experience the benefits of a supportive community dedicated to your healthcare needs! Want to know more? Visit our Member Guidelines for more details.
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 19, 2025