What you are describing are the old HMO plans that came around during the open market era. And yes they were cheaper but they were optional and all parties had a choice to purchase or not knowing there would be limitations in care. You got what you pay for...
But what we have now is HMO style coverage in even the best and most expensive of plans mandated by government so there is no longer a “choice” of what kind of care and benefits you will receive for your money. You are going to get limited care with an insurance “adjuster” in between you and your doctor no matter what.
We have to remember cause and effect in this. When a market gets competitive like this the “suppliers” also have to become competitive, ie Hospitals, Medical product suppliers, Doctors, Etc. will also have to readjust their super inflated prices in order to attract business from the insurance companies. Truly, the market will adjust throughout all the way up the chain.
Example...A disposable plastic water pitcher and small washtub will no longer cost 400 dollars as currently billed by hospitals.
May I ask who your health insurance carrier happens to be?
I get my health insurance through my employer. Cigna manages it.