I'm thinking of forgoing health insurance in 2026 because I can barely afford it. What are my options?

Core Insights - The rising cost of health insurance has become a significant concern for Americans, with prices increasing over 50% since 2010 [1] - Many individuals are exploring alternative funding methods for medical expenses or opting out of insurance, relying on personal savings and health [2] Group 1: Health Insurance Costs - The average annual premium for a single worker is projected to be $9,325 in 2025, while for a family, it is $26,993, with self-employed individuals potentially facing even higher costs [5] - The median household income in the U.S. was $83,730 in 2024, indicating that health insurance can consume a substantial portion of pre-tax income for families [6] - Health insurance costs are expected to rise by an average of 6.5% in 2026, marking the highest increase since 2010 [7] Group 2: Individual Strategies - A case study of a self-employed consultant illustrates the trend of individuals considering self-funding their healthcare by saving projected insurance costs, which could be around $25,000 annually with a $15,000 deductible [3] - The consultant, who is in his 30s and has no chronic health issues, reflects a growing mindset among younger individuals regarding health insurance [4]