If you are unemployed or don’t make much money you likely qualify for Medicaid. And honestly, except for the mental health providers that don’t take it, it was the best health plan I’ve ever had. HHS in RI is a fucking shit show, and the application is hell, so I would just make an appointment with the financial people at a Providence Health center or similar place to sign you up.

And also, $700 is a lot of money, but it is very little compared to an emergency room visit or even a months worth of some medications. Right now I would have to pay $600/month if I was to pay for my own plan. The penalty is still less than buying insurance.