Episode Details

In this episode of Beyond Budgets®, Deb shares a personal story that hits home—navigating the unexpected cost of her son's surgery, even with insurance. That real-life experience opens the door to a bigger conversation: what are your options when traditional health insurance doesn't fit?

Whether you're between jobs, self-employed, or considering early retirement, Deb breaks down:

• What healthcare sharing plans really are—and what they're not

• The trade-offs of COBRA vs. marketplace insurance

• Why premiums have jumped 47% over the last decade

• What to know about pre-existing conditions, preventive care, and reimbursement delays

• Her own experience using MediShare during a family sabbatical

Plus, Deb dives into smart open enrollment decisions for those with traditional employer plans—HSA vs. FSA, high-deductible plans, and avoiding costly dental surprises (hello, braces).

This is a must-listen if you're:

• Self-employed and unsure about your healthcare options

• In between jobs and overwhelmed by COBRA costs

• Comparing insurance during open enrollment

Episode Highlights

(04:56) Understanding Healthcare Cost-Sharing Plans

(13:39) Healthcare Sharing Plans vs. Traditional Insurance

(19:48) Benefits of High Deductible Health Plans

(22:25) Financial Planning for Orthodontic Costs

Resources

• Deb's blog post on Healthcare Sharing Plans

• Healthcare Sharing Plan Providers: Medi-Share, Liberty HealthShare, Christian Healthcare Ministries, Samaritan Ministries, Solidarity HealthShare

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