Rising Health Insurance Premiums Force Americans to Seek Affordable Alternatives

Millions of Americans are experiencing financial discomfort while attempting to enroll in their ACA health insurance plans for the year 2026. A recent analysis conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) revealed that the average premium for ACA Marketplace plans has surged by 26% since last year. This alarming increase comes before even considering the expiration of the enhanced tax credits at the end of December 2025, which previously helped soften the blow of rising costs. Without this temporary assistance, the KFF predicts that certain premiums could potentially double, placing an even greater burden on individuals and families.

The increases in premiums are not uniform; they vary based on factors like income, age, family size, and geographic location. For example, North Carolina witnesses average premium hikes ranging between 16% to 34%, while states like Texas and Florida see jumps of 35% and 34%, respectively. As individuals start exploring lower-tier insurance plans to evade skyrocketing costs, they often come across prohibitively high deductibles, some exceeding $7,000.

In light of these challenges, thousands of Americans are turning their attention to alternatives such as healthcare sharing ministries, notably Liberty HealthShare. This organization offers a model that allows members to manage their healthcare costs differently than conventional insurance. Dorsey Morrow, the CEO of Liberty HealthShare, noted a stark increase in inquiries regarding membership, reporting a 300% rise in interest in November 2025 compared to the same month the prior year.

Membership growth has been significant, with Liberty HealthShare witnessing its highest monthly enrollment figures in over three years, primarily due to the rising costs of conventional insurance options. Morrow emphasized that health sharing, while not technically classified as insurance, provides an affordable alternative to high premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.

One of the critical aspects of health sharing ministries like Liberty HealthShare is the community principle, offering members the chance to share eligible medical expenses within a faith-based framework. Members contribute voluntarily to help cover medical costs, making healthcare more accessible and aligned with their values. In the past year, Liberty HealthShare members collectively shared over $454 million in medical expenses, which were repriced down to about $154 million, saving them more than $300 million. The organization has facilitated nearly $5 billion in shared medical expenses since its inception.

It’s essential to note that health sharing may not be suitable for everyone. Morrow encourages potential members to review the guidelines of Liberty HealthShare to understand what medical expenses qualify for shared assistance and which do not, given that this model operates outside the mandates placed upon traditional insurance plans. In general, members can expect to have their medical expenses shared within an average timeframe of 30-45 days.

Liberty HealthShare operates with a focus on transparency and accountability, holding high ratings from organizations like Charity Navigator. It provides various programs tailored to different demographics, from individuals to families, ensuring that members can find a plan that suits their unique needs and budgets.

For instance, suggested monthly sharing amounts for individuals range from $87 to $362, while families of four can start their plans at just $319 per month. Furthermore, Liberty HealthShare includes free urgent care and mental wellness telehealth visits, which add value to its offerings. Special sharing programs for dental and vision care are also available.

Amid a backdrop of increasing healthcare costs across the nation, Liberty HealthShare stands as a beacon for those seeking tailored, faith-aligned healthcare solutions. By offering alternatives that align with individuals' ethical and financial needs, many are finding solace and support in ways that traditional insurance may not provide.

For more information about Liberty HealthShare and its offerings, you can visit LibertyHealthShare.org or contact them directly at (855) 585-4237. Enrollment is available year-round, allowing individuals to join the community without having to wait for specific enrollment periods.

As families and individuals navigate the increasingly complex landscape of healthcare, understanding the options available to them is crucial. For many, turning to healthcare sharing can provide a sense of relief from price hikes that feel overwhelming, while also fostering community support in challenging times.