I'm sorry, Steady Eddie, but the information reported in the stories I provided links to is exactly the opposite. It is not a tax, it is a fine. And the IRS does not have unlimited power to go after you if you do not pay the fine, for this particular item, the IRS collection powers are specifically limited. Please read the stories again (
links here) and note the sources. This is credible information.
You are correct that if you do not have health insurance and need medical care, you will be repsonsible for the full cost. But that is nothing new. Millions of Americans are without health insurance now and when they need medical care, they go in and it is provided. Then the bill comes and they ignore it or file bankrupcy, forcing those of us who have health insurance to pay higher premiums because health care providers jack up their prices on those who do pay to cover those who do not pay.