There are three models used for cost-containment within Healthcare Sharing organizations: Reference-Based Pricing (RBP), Cash Pay, and Leased Provider Network.
America's HealthShare uses both Referenced-Based Pricing and Cash Pay models.
Reference-Based Pricing (RBP) provides the most convenient and best savings, and is fair and reasonable for all parties. For maximum cost savings, this model allows you to see any provider but requires the provider to bill America's HealthShare directly. Using several benchmarks, such as Medicare, it has been proven to consistently generate 60-70% savings off billed charges.
The Cash Pay Model still provides a good savings if the provider does not bill directly as mentioned above. Members negotiate with providers, submit paid receipt and itemized bill, and wait for reimbursement. The national average cash-pay cost savings can average 25-45% off billed charges.
Other healthshares choose to lease national provider networks from third parties. This model can make it easier for members at the provider’s office, however, these healthshare Members are ultimately paying more because those networks generate savings that are typically only about 30% off billed charges, which is only marginally less expensive than insurance.
To take full advantage of your membership, we encourage you to allow your provider to bill us directly. This will enable us to utilize Referenced Based Pricing and ensure you receive the highest level of cost savings and streamlined process.