A few years ago I wasn't planning on letting health insurance keep me from retiring, as my wife had good coverage as well (I was going to sign-up on her plan). But then she took a new job, and their health insurance sucks....
As for the BIL, 18 months I could see....But I just turned 60, so I have 5 years before I can sign-up for Medicare!
Just have to wait and see, I guess.