I’ve seen cheaper rates for independent insurance during the quoting process. Once you apply and they look at your medical records the rates usually go up fast.
That, or the policy coverage is weak.
In the mid 90s I took out a low-premium policy. When did start to use it for some health concerns, I read the fine print.
Their maximum payout in a year was about what I had paid in premiums. Anything over their low payout amounts 'exceeded' the coverage and came out of MY pocket. So, basically, they were worthless.
Two years ago I spent Christmas in intensive care with a guy who had similar insurance. His maximum coverage for hospitalization was $10,000.
Don’t know what his bill totaled but mine was around $184k.