should I get my own health insurance?

Right now I don't have any health insurance but I'm considering paying it out of my own pocket. Is this wise?
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Health insurance is critical for protecting both your health and your wallet. The cost of even basic health care can be very expensive. The average cost of a day in a California hospital is more the $9,000. A burst appendix can cost over $45,000. A health insurance policy limits your exposure. And the cost can be less than you think. The cost depends in part on how much risk you're willing to take in the form of deductibles and co-insurance (the percent of a claim you pay before the carrier pays 100%). If you take on more of the risk, your monthly premium will be lower. Shift the risk to the carrier in the form of a lower deductible and they'll charge more. But right now you're on the hook for 100% of the cost, so a high deductible might make sense for you. In California you can research the cost of coverage at http://www.InsuranceNeighborhood.com . You can also find a local agent to help you through the jargon on their site. A local agent can help you not only find the right plan, but help you with any problems that arrive once you have the coverage. Outside of California you can find local agents through their national trade association. The site is http://www.NAHU.org. Just click on the "Customer Resources" tab and then on the "Find an Agent" link. Hope this helps.
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