HCSM Myth #9: People with pre-existing conditions are turned away

From the beginning of health care sharing ministries, objections to the system have been raised that do not accurately reflect reality. To help clear up these misunderstandings, we’re running a series of posts that dispel those myths.

Myth #9: Health care sharing ministries turn away people with pre-existing conditions.

Samaritan Ministries doesn’t deny membership to anyone for health reasons.

Needs from pre-existing conditions aren’t eligible for sharing as regular needs. However, needs related to conditions that existed before a person joined may eventually be able to be shared under certain conditions, such as an absence of symptoms for a certain number of years depending on the condition. In addition, needs related to pre-existing conditions may also be submitted as a “special prayer need.” SPNs are needs that fall outside the Guidelines (expenses related to pre-existing conditions, extensive dental work, orthodontics, etc.) but that are causing a financial burden. If approved, they are included on a month’s share slips for voluntary giving above and beyond one’s monthly share. In some cases, Samaritan even shares as SPNs needs related to expenses incurred before the person’s membership started.