My dad (state of California) was unhealthy with a cancer history, old hip replacements, adult onset diabetes, and various other non-trivial problems, etc., and he got coverage as a self-employed in California. He also got coverage for my mom this way (who was severely overweight at that time), so I guess they applied as a group of 2. They got very good rates. In fact, my mom's current rate is basically the low rate on Kaiser's site for her age, I think (my dad has died and the business no longer exists).
Kaiser also gave my mom that optional tie your stomach procedure for obese people and her weight is about half her peak weight, she is currently just about normal weight for her height/stature. They have also provided follow up cosmetic surgery at no cost.
Kramer