What is the primary purpose of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) as it relates to health insurance coverage?

The primary purpose of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is to ensure minimum coverage standards and prohibit discrimination in health care, which is reflected in the chosen answer. The ACA established essential health benefits that all health insurance plans must cover, ensuring that individuals have access to necessary services such as preventive care, maternity care, and mental health services.

Additionally, the ACA includes provisions aimed at eliminating discrimination based on pre-existing conditions, gender, and other factors that had historically led to unequal access to care. By addressing these issues, the ACA aims to protect consumers and promote equity in the health insurance system, ensuring more individuals receive the coverage they need without facing unfair barriers.

The focus on minimum coverage standards and non-discrimination is critical in transforming the health insurance landscape, helping to reduce the number of uninsured and underinsured individuals, and enhancing the overall public health system. Such measures are foundational in increasing access to quality care for all Americans.