I am 55 and can't retire next year as planned because I can't get a private health policy, so I have to hang onto my job. I was, thankfully, able to arrange more vacation time and less money with my employer
I friend here in TN, also 55 bought a BC/BS plan at age 53 with a $10,000 deductible. Cost for one person began at $100 per month and still under $200. He figures with a $10,000 credit limit on a credit card and his policy, he can get best local care available should the need arrise.