Healthcare costs have increased year after year recently. A number of people find it difficult to pay for group or individual health insurance plans. In such cases, patients may go without care that they need.

The San Diego County Medical Society Foundation provided services for 40 uninsured patients in the area. For many of the patients, their pain was so severe they were unable to work. More than 550 people have received free care thanks to the program since 2008.

San Diego County Medical Society Foundation executive director Kitty Baily says the surgeries help get people back on their feet.

"This program gets people out of the emergency rooms and back to good health so that they can return to work or caring for their families," says Baily. "This is possible because of the generosity of our volunteers."

It's important for people not to neglect their health. In some cases, a condition can become worse if not treated in a timely fashion. Consumers can search for affordable health insurance quotes online and speak to insurers directly to find a plan that meets their needs and budget.