Frankfort, USA - A Christians-only health plan that serves nearly 20,000 churchgoers nationwide can continue operating in Kentucky, a judge has ruled.
Franklin County Circuit Judge Thomas D. Wingate ruled Jan. 18 that the Medi-Share program isn't insurance and therefore doesn't violate the state's insurance laws.
The Kentucky Office of Insurance had asked Wingate to ban the program because it is not subject to the same laws and regulations that govern conventional health insurance companies.
Richard Masters, a Louisville attorney representing Medi-Share, said the plan is simply a cost-sharing program, not insurance.
Medi-Share, which is supported by contributions from participating churchgoers, is based on the biblical belief that Christians should take care of one another's needs.
The program excludes non-Christians because, organizers say, their lifestyles can result in unnecessary medical care. Participants in Medi-Share can't smoke, use illegal drugs or abuse alcohol. They're also not allowed to enroll if they have pre-existing conditions like heart disease, diabetes or cancer.
Ronda Sloan, spokeswoman for the Office of Insurance, cautioned consumers that participating in a "sharing" program like Medi-Share is not the same as having a policy issued by an insurance company.
However, Medi-Share, based in Melbourne, Fla., says it publishes a disclaimer stating it should never be considered a substitute for an insurance policy and doesn't guarantee payment of medical bills.
Medi-Share says it grew from $23 million in gross revenues in 2002 to $42.8 million in 2005, and now serves 19,000 families, including about 300 in Kentucky.