We're in a similar boat, Gringal. When we moved here from Canada more than 16 years ago, we applied for private medical insurance but were turned down due to pre-existing conditions. With not having to pay for private insurance, 'NOB' property taxes or heating and air conditioning, we're ahead of the game. We've had several operations/procedures including brain surgery, pacemaker replacement, coronary artery stents (5 for me and 2 for spouse), as well as other operations.