Basically, the idea is to save a lot while you are young and vital. When you reach middle of your career you might not be able to compete with fresh, young talents. So save while you can and when you can, that can benefit your future.
I have heavily invested in 401(k) option through my work. In just few short years I have tripled my contribution. And since I am young I do not have many doctor visits or prescription needs. But imagine when I have an illness that would require for me to constantly attend, it would deplete my savings fast. For this unimaginable event, I save for the future while I am healthy and able.
Just to state an example, let's say you are saving $10,000 dollars a year at the interest of modest 3%
Year 1: $10,300.00
Year 2: $20,909.00 (($10,300 + $10,000) x 3% interest)
Year 3: $31,836.27
Year 4: $43,091.36 ...
Now imagine you've been doing this for 20 or 30 years. It can add up very quickly. Of course, we didn't count income tax for the interest and other bank fees... but you get the idea.
As far as Health care issues, I would not worry about that. Although health coverage may change depend on the government, you can always shop around for better health care coverage plans. After all, it's your money that they want. So my idea is that if I have enough money to afford my own private health care coverage (not subsidized) I don't have to worry about politicians screwing up my health care plan. When it comes to money I do not trust anyone or anything that I do not have 100% control. United States' Social Security and Medicaid/Medicare should not be the choice for my future. I am sure there are people who might need a little assistance from the government but I will not be the one. I mean, I spent all those years learning and studying to get a great career and have nothing to show at the end for my retirement is just plain craziness

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