Why can't we just have a nationalized health care system that covers only catastrophic issues? I have several friends in this "young" age group who have been able to get catastrophic coverage for $50-75 a month. I feel that should be a reasonable thing to aim for for everyone. Then the private insurance companies could stay in business selling additional coverage for people who want the doctors visits and the prescription coverage. Seems like a good plan to me.
On a side note, I would argue that there are VERY few people who can't afford some level of health coverage. They might not be able to afford the coverage they would like (or had previously), but they can afford catastrophic coverage. They might CHOOSE to not prioritize it in their budget. Maybe they would have to give up their iPhone to get coverage. Maybe they would have to get a 3rd room mate instead of having a bedroom to themselves. If it was a priority, people would get it done. The problem is that it isn't a priority, because while society says "Get insurance", it's secretly whispering into their ears "If you don't get insurance, we'll still cover you if something bad happens".