You are on the right track... Don’t sign up for Obamacare, don’t pay the IRS penalty (they can’t go after you for it besides a strongly worded letter), and then if you get sick sign up for Obamacare and see the doc. They can’t deny you on pre-existing conditions now...
True, but realize you won't be covered until the first of the next month, at the earliest. Or the first of the second month if you apply after the 24th.