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Is OneShare Health a Good Alternative to the ACA?

By OneShare Health on 5:30 AM on January 6, 2026

Affordable Care Act

If you’re exploring options outside of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), you’re not alone. Many individuals and families are seeking simpler, more affordable ways to handle medical costs, without all the complexity and cost of traditional insurance.

That’s where OneShare Health comes in. As a recognized Health Care Sharing Ministry, OneShare Health offers a community-centered approach to sharing medical expenses. But is it a good alternative to the ACA for your situation?

Let’s break it down.

What Is OneShare Health?

OneShare Health is not insurance. It’s a Health Care Sharing Ministry that facilitates the sharing of Eligible medical expenses among like-minded Members. It’s built around the idea of mutual support—Members contribute a Monthly Contribution, and those funds are used to help others in the community with Eligible needs.

This approach allows for more flexibility, often at a lower cost than ACA options.

Key Differences Between OneShare Health and the ACA

While both offer ways to manage medical costs, there are some clear distinctions:

1. Not Subject to ACA Requirements
OneShare Health does not fall under ACA mandates. That means Members aren’t required to meet federal Essential Health Benefits, but in exchange, they gain more control over how they manage their health care needs.

2. Lower Monthly Contributions
Monthly Contributions for OneShare Health Programs start as low as:

  • $72.99 for the Catastrophic Program – for individuals in good health with minimal medical needs

  • $92.99 for the Classic Program – our most popular option with broader sharing and preventive benefits

  • CAT365 (Catastrophic 365) – a robust one-year solution designed for temporary needs like job loss or a transition, with sharing up to $1,000,000 in Eligible Expenses

3. Streamlined Enrollment
There’s no Open Enrollment period. You can enroll in OneShare Health at any time throughout the year, which makes it a great solution for those experiencing life changes, like job loss, turning 26, or becoming self-employed.

4. Sharing Eligibility vs. Coverage
Because OneShare Health is a Health Care Sharing Ministry, it doesn’t offer insurance coverage. Instead, it shares in Eligible medical expenses, based on established Membership Guidelines. That includes services like:

  • Virtual Urgent Care (Telemedicine)

  • Emergency Room services (subject to Visit Fee and ISA)

  • Hospitalization and Surgery after the ISA is met

  • Preventive services on select Programs

  • Prescription and wellness discounts via Clever Health, Rx Valet, and WellCard Savings

Who Might Benefit Most from OneShare Health?

If you’re relatively healthy, looking for a more budget-conscious option, or want a Program without the limitations of traditional insurance, OneShare Health may be a great fit.

You may especially benefit if you are:

  • Self-employed or freelance

  • Between jobs

  • Not eligible for subsidies under the ACA

  • Seeking an alternative to COBRA

  • A young adult looking for flexibility

Things to Keep in Mind

Because OneShare Health is not insurance, there’s no guarantee of payment. All medical sharing is voluntary and subject to Guidelines. Pre-existing conditions may be limited, and services vary by Program and state.

That said, Members have the freedom to choose Providers, benefit from valuable discounts, and be part of a caring community, all while keeping costs more manageable.

Want to see if OneShare Health is right for you? Get a quote today and speak with a specialist who can walk you through your options.

OneShare Health

Written by OneShare Health

Answering all your questions regarding medical cost sharing and healthcare and keeping you up to date on our Health Care Sharing Ministry.