UnitedHealthCare subsidiary Golden Rule recently launched a new product designed to allow users to "turn off" their coverage until they are ready to use it. The product, called UnitedHealth Continuity, allows consumers to apply for health insurance while they are healthy and lock-in rates, but leave their plan deactivated until they retire, become self-employed or unemployed, or move to a job without health benefits.

"As people age, it is less likely that they will keep their group health insurance," said Golden Rule's CEO Richard Collins in a press release. "About 80 percent of those aged 45 to 49 have group health coverage; while only 30 percent of people aged 60 to 64 have group health plans. This often leaves people uninsured when they most need affordable access to health care."