Which of the following is an essential health benefit required by the Affordable Care Act?

Emergency services are classified as an essential health benefit under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This means that health insurance plans are mandated to cover emergency medical services without requiring prior authorization, regardless of whether the provider is part of the health plan’s network. This requirement is crucial for ensuring that individuals have access to necessary medical care during emergencies, allowing them to seek treatment without worrying about high costs or network restrictions.

The ACA defined ten categories of essential health benefits to ensure comprehensive coverage. Emergency services play a critical role in protecting individuals from denied or delayed care in time-sensitive situations, promoting overall public health and safety.

The other options, such as cosmetic surgery, elective procedures, and vision correction not due to medical necessity, are generally not covered as essential health benefits under the ACA, reflecting the focus on providing necessary medical care rather than optional or non-urgent services.