I'd never even consider going without health insurance. It's just not worth the risk. Healthcare is astronomically expensive. There are so many things that can very easily cost you a fortune, especially when you're active (cycling, etc.). I've had some major medical/health expenses this year - I'd be broke, or more likely in the red, if it weren't for my health insurance. Once you've got medical insurance, hold on to it, because it can be difficult to reinstate coverage if you let it go. The three most common providers in my area are Blue Shield, Blue Cross, and Kaiser-Permanente. There are probably other major companies outside of California