What is one requirement for plans operating under the ACA?

Plans operating under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) must include essential health benefits, which is a foundational requirement of the legislation. These essential health benefits are a set of health care service categories that must be covered by certain plans, ensuring that individuals have access to comprehensive healthcare. The inclusion of these benefits helps provide a baseline level of coverage for consumers, addressing key areas such as hospitalization, preventive and wellness services, prescription drugs, maternity and newborn care, mental health services, and pediatric services.

This requirement promotes uniformity and helps protect consumers from inadequate insurance, as plans that meet ACA standards must offer a more comprehensive array of services compared to those that do not. By ensuring coverage for essential health benefits, the ACA aims to improve access to necessary health care services and promote overall health and well-being for individuals.