What is the main goal of the Affordable Care Act (ACA)?

The primary objective of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is to increase access to health insurance for a larger segment of the population. This legislation was designed to address instances of underinsurance and the millions of Americans without health coverage. By implementing measures such as the establishment of health insurance marketplaces, expanding Medicaid eligibility, and mandating that individuals either obtain insurance or face penalties, the ACA significantly aims to broaden the accessibility and affordability of health insurance.

The ACA also includes provisions to prohibit discrimination based on pre-existing conditions and mandates essential health benefits, ensuring that insurance policies cover a comprehensive range of health services. These measures collectively strive to make health insurance more accessible and affordable, thus fulfilling the act's overarching goal of improving healthcare access for all Americans.