When “Skipping Insurance” Could Seem Cheaper — And Why a Hybrid Approach Works

A recent Newsweek story highlights a trend: some healthy Americans are tempted to pay cash for routine care instead of paying high premiums for insurance.(newsweek.com) For a year with minimal medical needs, premiums plus deductibles can feel more expensive than simply paying out-of-pocket for a check-up or minor treatment.

Cash-pay can be cost-effective for routine visits, but it leaves you exposed if something major happens. That’s where private catastrophic coverage comes in. These plans carry lower monthly premiums and high deductibles but protect against serious, unexpected medical events — hospitalizations, surgeries, or emergency care. Pairing cash-pay for everyday care with a catastrophic plan gives many self-employed individuals the “best of both worlds”: cost control and financial protection.

Working with a health insurance consultant can help you structure this hybrid approach intelligently. A consultant evaluates your health history, lifestyle, and risk tolerance, then finds a plan that balances lower out-of-pocket costs with protection against major medical expenses. For many high-income, healthy clients, this strategy offers more flexibility and value than a traditional Marketplace plan.