Health Sharing Ministries and Personal Injury Cases

Understanding Health Sharing Ministries
Health Sharing Ministries (HSMs) are organizations where members share each other's medical costs. These groups, often founded on religious or ethical principles, provide an alternative to traditional health insurance by pooling members' resources to cover eligible expenses. Members contribute monthly, and the funds are used to reimburse others' healthcare costs.

HSMs and Personal Injury Cases
When members of HSMs are involved in personal injury cases, their unique health coverage structure can significantly impact the case.

  1. Medical Expense Documentation:
    HSMs typically don’t provide standard insurance documentation like Explanation of Benefits (EOBs), requiring members to rely on detailed medical records and receipts to prove expenses.
  2. Reimbursement Rules:
    Some HSMs require members to disclose any third-party claims, such as personal injury settlements, and may seek reimbursement from any compensation awarded.
  3. Coverage Limitations:
    HSMs often exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions or injuries caused by certain activities. Plaintiffs must account for out-of-pocket expenses when seeking damages.
  4. Legal Considerations in California:
    • California's comparative fault system can reduce a plaintiff’s compensation if they share fault in the incident.
    • The "eggshell plaintiff" rule ensures defendants are responsible for the full extent of injuries, even if pre-existing conditions contributed to the severity​.

Challenges for Attorneys and Plaintiffs
Navigating personal injury cases as an HSM member requires addressing:

  • Unique documentation requirements for medical expenses.
  • Reimbursement obligations to the HSM.
  • Helping clients receive care if their HSM cuts off benefits from an accident. 
  • Educating courts about HSMs as distinct from traditional insurance.

Strategies for Success

  • Thorough Documentation: Ensure all medical costs and payments are well-documented.
  • Expert Testimony: Work with experts to clarify medical costs and damages.
  • Legal Guidance: Consult an attorney familiar with personal injury and HSM-related cases.

If you’re a member of a Health Sharing Ministry and have been injured in an accident, you need skilled legal representation to navigate the unique challenges of your case. The experienced attorneys at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. are here to help you build a strong case, recover fair compensation, and ensure your HSM obligations are addressed properly.

Contact us today at 1-800-GO-HARRIS for a free case consultation and let us guide you through every step of your personal injury claim.