I am sort of the opposite case. I have some paralysis from an old neck injury. Also looks like incipient diabetes. I never go to the doctor, just work non-stop. That isn’t to say I don’t watch my health, I get plenty of exercie. I dropped my carbohydrate intake to a minimum and my energy levels picked right up. Some health foods like fish oil and dhea actually seem to help.
Cost to taxpayer - zero. Potential cost to taxpayer if forced into medical system - potentially infinite. I could milk that cow for hundreds of thousands like your friend.
You have my admiration and respect.