Christians-only insurer banned in Ky. refers clients to competitor

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) - A Christians-only health insurance program that has been ordered to stop operating in Kentucky is referring clients to one of its competitors that offers similar services in the state.

Franklin County Circuit Judge Thomas Wingate concluded last month that Florida-based Medi-Share doesn't comply with Kentucky Department of Insurance regulations and won't be allowed to operate in the state after Jan. 1. That means some 800 Kentuckians will have to look elsewhere for coverage.

Medi-Share spokeswoman Amy Huffman said Kentucky members have been advised to look for other medical coverage. She said one suggestion was that they consider Samaritan Ministries, an Illinois-based cost-sharing ministry that remains in good standing in Kentucky.

Huffman said Medi-Share recommended that its members consider medical coverage from secular health insurance companies as well.

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