What is the ACA and what is its purpose?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA), enacted in 2010, is a comprehensive health care reform law primarily aimed at increasing access to health insurance for a wider range of individuals. This legislation introduced several key provisions designed to make health coverage more affordable and accessible.

One of the most significant aspects of the ACA is the expansion of Medicaid eligibility, allowing millions of low-income individuals to qualify for health coverage. Additionally, the ACA established health insurance marketplaces, where individuals and small businesses can compare and purchase insurance plans, often with income-based subsidies to reduce costs. The law also includes consumer protections such as prohibiting insurers from denying coverage due to pre-existing conditions, as well as mandates that young adults can stay on their parents' plans until age 26.

The intention behind the ACA is to improve the overall health care system in the United States by ensuring that more people have access to necessary medical services and reducing the number of uninsured individuals. While it addresses various aspects of health care, including preventative measures and overall costs, its primary goal centers on expanding health insurance access.