That is not true, you can always find some way that is cheper. Dentis in China town New York are more reasonable, per extraction cost you only from us$ 40 - us$100. Doctor visit is also the same range, but, drug is not included.
Medical insurance is not cheap, I have to pay over $600 monthly. Besides I need to pay $50 co-pay for regular doctor visit. Insurance is not covering everything.
get yourself a medicare insurance is a MUST in the US, without that, I hope you're not getting sick often in your life or you will be broke for just to see doctor.