How does the ACA address pre-existing conditions?

• A. Prohibits denial of coverage or higher premiums based on pre-existing conditions
• B. Requires denial of coverage for high-risk individuals
• C. Allows rating based on health status but with higher premiums
• D. Exempts pre-existing conditions for adults only

Answer: (A)

Under the ACA, protections for people with pre-existing conditions mean insurers cannot deny coverage or charge higher premiums simply because someone has an illness or health history. Plans must be offered to any applicant, and the price you pay isn’t tied to your health status. Instead, premiums can reflect factors like age, location, tobacco use, and family size, but not health conditions. This shift stops discrimination based on health and ensures ongoing access to coverage for individuals who need it most.

The other ideas would contradict this protection: allowing denial of coverage for high-risk individuals, or letting health status determine higher premiums, would undermine access. Exempting pre-existing conditions only for adults would also contradict the broad protection the ACA provides to both adults and children.