What is one of the requirements set by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) regarding new health plans?

One of the significant requirements established by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is that health plans cannot deny applicants or charge higher premiums based on medical history. This provision is crucial because it ensures that all individuals, regardless of their past health issues or current medical conditions, have access to health insurance without facing discrimination or inflated costs.

This requirement promotes equality in the healthcare system, as previously, individuals with pre-existing conditions could be unfairly denied coverage or subjected to exorbitant premiums, which effectively barred them from obtaining necessary medical care. By prohibiting such practices, the ACA aims to foster a more inclusive and fair healthcare environment.

In contrast to other choices, the requirement that plans must include a complex application process is not a feature of the ACA; similarly, all applicants being charged different rates based on pre-existing conditions contradicts the primary purpose of the ACA, which is to standardize coverage. Lastly, while many healthcare services under the ACA are more accessible, plans being completely free for all individuals is not a requirement; rather, financial assistance and subsidies may be available depending on income levels, but the plans still often require premiums.