Why You Should Avoid Health Exchange Ministries
As the pandemic continues, President Trump has quietly launched a new attack on the Affordable Care Act: the Treasury Department has proposed a new ordinance defining health-sharing ministries as health insurance. According to the Los Angeles Times , the new rule could increase the appeal of these religious plans – which already charge lower monthly fees – by deducting taxes from ministries’ tax spending on health-sharing.
According to a recent report from Kaiser Health News , close to a million people work in more than 100 health-sharing ministries in at least 29 states. These plans have been scrutinized by government agencies as well as the media as clients are not insured.
Attorneys general of 20 states have already opposed the new rule . In a letter to Treasury Secretary Stephen Mnuchin, they warned that health-sharing ministries are not providing comprehensive coverage and are not complying with the Affordable Care Act.
They say this could leave clients “without significant health benefits and without other important remedies, such as insurance for pre-existing medical conditions.” Attorneys general warn that these plans do not include traditional insurance guarantees and could leave costly coverage gaps for Americans. This can be especially detrimental in the face of the coronavirus pandemic, as millions of people are currently out of work and looking for affordable health insurance.
Where to find affordable health insurance
Whether you have recently lost your coverage or are looking to purchase a new health plan, it may be tempting to register with the Ministry of Healthcare Sharing. The lower monthly fees and possible tax breaks on the new Treasury proposal may sound attractive, but your family may have more opportunities elsewhere.
Start by purchasing plans at Healthcare.gov and see if your family is eligible for a discount on cohabitation . Depending on your income, you may be eligible for Medicaid , which may offer low-cost or free health insurance. You can learn more about eligibility and how to apply for coverage here .