What is a major change to health insurance policies introduced by the Affordable Care Act?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) made significant strides in reshaping health insurance policies, one of the most notable being the prohibition of discrimination based on pre-existing conditions. Prior to the ACA, individuals with pre-existing health issues could be denied coverage or charged higher premiums, making it difficult for them to access necessary care. The ACA requires that insurers provide coverage to all applicants regardless of their health history, thereby enhancing access to healthcare for those who previously faced barriers. This fundamental change ensures that everyone, including those with chronic illnesses, can obtain insurance without fear that their health status will exclude them from essential coverage.

In contrast, other options reflect changes that did not occur under the ACA. For instance, eliminating coverage for young adults is incorrect because the ACA actually allowed young adults to remain on their parents' insurance plans until age 26. Additionally, while premiums can vary, the ACA included measures to protect certain groups and control costs, making the blanket assertion that premiums increased for all policyholders misleading. Lastly, the ACA expanded, rather than reduced, the number of essential health benefits that must be included in health plans, ensuring comprehensive care and critical services for all insured individuals.