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
Connect with Deb Meyer
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
