Many people say our healthcare system is broken—and maybe you’ve felt that yourself.

Rising costs, denied claims, and surprise bills have left millions of Americans buried in medical debt. But there’s a better, biblical way to approach healthcare—one that has been serving Christians for more than forty years. Lauren Gajdek joins us today to tell us all about it.

Lauren Gajdek is the Senior Director of External Affairs at Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), an underwriter of Faith & Finance. 

Why an “Open Enrollment” Campaign for a Year-Round Ministry?

While CHM accepts new members year-round, their Open Enrollment Campaign—running from November 1 through January 15—aligns with the period when most Americans review or change their health coverage through employers or government exchanges.

This is the time of year when people are thinking about healthcare decisions. So even though CHM is open year-round, it’s an excellent opportunity to shine a light on a biblical alternative.

Many Americans have grown frustrated with their healthcare experiences. CHM hears from countless people who’ve paid premiums for years, only to find that help is unavailable when they need it most.

It’s disheartening. You think your provider is in-network, but later find out they’re not. That leaves patients confused and financially burdened. It’s a system that often leaves believers wondering if there’s a better way.

That sense of frustration has become widespread—especially as over 100 million Americans now carry medical debt, a staggering sign of a broken system.

How CHM Differs from Insurance

CHM operates from a radically different model. Rather than paying into a profit-driven system, CHM members share each other’s medical expenses—a reflection of biblical community and mutual care.

They’ve been around since 1981 and have shared or satisfied over $13 billion in medical bills. They’re a nonprofit ministry that helps Christians live out their faith through practical care.

Unlike traditional insurance, CHM members can visit any doctor or hospital they choose—there are no in-network restrictions—as long as the treatment meets the ministry’s guidelines.

It’s simple, affordable, and rooted in biblical stewardship. Members have the freedom and peace of mind that come with knowing they’re part of a community that cares.

At its core, CHM is not an insurance company—it’s a Christ-centered community built on shared values. Members give monthly to help other believers in need. It’s an act of faith and stewardship. And for most people, it’s far more affordable than traditional plans.

This affordability and flexibility are especially appealing for Christians seeking to align their healthcare decisions with their faith and values.

Guidance for Those Exploring Their Options

For anyone comparing healthcare choices this season, approach the decision prayerfully and with an open mind.

You don’t have to be trapped in a broken insurance system. There’s a proven, Christ-centered way to handle your healthcare. Go to CHMinistries.org/FaithFi to find a cost comparison tool that shows how CHM can make care more affordable.

Many in the Faith & Finance audience are retirees or nearing retirement. So it’s important to note that CHM also complements Medicare, helping cover eligible expenses Medicare may not cover.

It’s what they call a ‘complementary’ approach, where CHM can help cover costs Medicare doesn’t pay, as long as they fall within its guidelines.

FaithFi is grateful for CHM’s partnership and their ongoing commitment to helping believers steward their healthcare costs wisely. You don’t have to settle for a system that’s broken. There’s a biblical, community-based way to manage your healthcare needs. Learn more at CHMinistries.org/FaithFi.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• A pastor friend of mine was told he owes $13,000 in taxes because his preparer made a mistake. He doesn’t have the money to pay for it. Where can he turn for help?
• I own a small business structured as an LLC, and I’m confused about how to tithe. Should I tithe personally from what I pay myself, from the business profits at year-end, or both?
• I’m a pastor, and one of my church members is struggling. After his father’s death, the estate was liquidated, leaving him without a home. He hasn’t filed taxes and now has tax debt. What’s the best way for him to address this?
• I’m looking into a debt management plan and wondering—will it hurt my credit score? And would I still be able to keep one credit card open for emergencies?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM)
• National Christian Foundation (NCF)
• Christian Credit Counselors
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)
• FaithFi App

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.