If you’re self-employed, you already know the pain of full-price marketplace premiums. A health sharing plan may offer real relief, but it’s not the right choice for every family. Here’s an honest look at how it works, who benefits most, and what to consider before enrolling.
What Is a Health Sharing Plan?
A health sharing plan is not traditional health insurance. Instead of paying premiums to an insurance company, members contribute to a shared pool. That pool helps cover eligible medical costs when a member needs care.
When you face a major medical need, the community shares those expenses. You first pay a set out-of-pocket amount called an Initial Unshareable Amount, or IUA. After you meet your IUA, the community covers eligible costs above that threshold.
This model has been around for decades. It works best for healthy individuals and families without high-risk pre-existing conditions who want a cost-effective alternative to traditional coverage.
Who Is a Health Sharing Plan a Good Fit For?
In 2026, the ACA subsidy cliff has returned. Under current rules, premium tax credits are only available to households earning between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level. Earn above that cutoff, and you get no subsidy — no matter how expensive your plan is.
That 400% threshold lands at roughly $62,600 for a single person and $128,600 for a family of four. Many self-employed individuals, especially those whose businesses have grown, find themselves squarely above that line.
Without subsidies, marketplace coverage can run $600 to $1,200 or more per month for a family. A health sharing plan often costs 30–50% less. For freelancers, contractors, and small business owners, that difference adds up fast.
That said, health sharing memberships aren’t right for everyone. If you have complex pre-existing conditions or need ongoing specialist care, traditional insurance may offer better financial protection. Our health insurance services page covers all your coverage options in one place — so you can compare and make an informed decision.
What the Planstin Ultrio Membership Includes
At Groberg Insurance Advisors, we partner with the Planstin Ultrio membership. It’s a health sharing plan built for self-employed individuals and families, starting around $289/month (depending on your family’s demographic details).
Members get unlimited virtual access to primary care providers through Primestin Care — a telemedicine primary care model included with every membership. Preventive care is fully supported too, including wellness visits, recommended screenings, and immunizations. For prescriptions, members can access over 70,000 in-network pharmacies, plus global sourcing options that save up to 66% on branded medications.
For major medical events — ER visits, hospitalizations, or surgeries — a Planstin Membership plan gets you access to the Zion HealthShare community. It will cover eligible costs after your IUA is met. You choose your IUA: $1,250, $2,500, or $5,000. That choice gives you meaningful control over your monthly contribution.
On average, Planstin members save about 46% compared to traditional marketplace plans. For many families, that’s a meaningful number month after month.
What to Know Before You Enroll
Health sharing plans work differently than traditional insurance — and going in with clear expectations matters.
These memberships aren’t regulated the same way insurance is. They aren’t insurance contracts and don’t carry the same coverage guarantees. Some services — particularly those related to pre-existing conditions — may have waiting periods or eligibility limitations. Read the membership guidelines carefully before you commit.
Your IUA functions much like a deductible. Choose a lower IUA and your monthly contribution rises. Choose a higher IUA and your monthly cost drops, but you’ll pay more out of pocket when a need arises. The right IUA depends on your health history and the financial cushion you’re comfortable holding.
It’s also worth knowing that health sharing memberships aren’t always a full replacement for every type of coverage. Many members pair their plan with supplemental, dental, or vision coverage to fill gaps.
If you’re weighing a health sharing plan against other options, it helps to talk with someone who knows both sides. We’ve put together a detailed overview and FAQ on our health sharing membership page — including what to watch for before you sign up.
The Bottom Line
A health sharing plan isn’t the right answer for every family. But for healthy, self-employed individuals who earn too much to qualify for ACA subsidies, it can be a smart and genuinely affordable solution.
At Groberg Insurance Advisors, we help you look at your options clearly — no pressure, no jargon, just honest guidance built around your situation.
Ready to find out if a health sharing plan fits your family? Book a free appointment with our team — we’ll walk through your income, your health needs, and your options together. If Planstin turns out to be a great fit, we’ll help you get enrolled in the Ultrio membership right away.
