As a quick follow up, United Healthcare confirmed on the phone that they do use “community rated” pricing, although they offer a 39% discount to new enrollees. Thus the $143 premium is really $244 discounted. At age 69, you begin losing 3% of that discount annually until age 80, when you’re paying full price.
I’m still shopping. Contemplating the high-deductible Plan G but not sure I want to deal with qualifying for a conventional plan should the need arise later in life. Lots to consider.