What is the primary focus of the ACA (Affordable Care Act) concerning compliance?

The primary focus of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is to improve access to healthcare and strengthen consumer protections. This landmark legislation aimed to expand healthcare coverage to millions of previously uninsured Americans by establishing health insurance marketplaces, expanding Medicaid eligibility, and mandating that individuals obtain health insurance or face penalties, thereby increasing overall access to healthcare services.

Furthermore, the ACA includes numerous provisions that enhance consumer protections. This includes prohibiting insurance companies from denying coverage based on pre-existing conditions, allowing young adults to remain on their parents' insurance plans until the age of 26, and requiring insurance plans to provide a set of essential health benefits. These measures are designed to protect consumers and ensure that they have access to necessary healthcare services without facing exorbitant costs or discriminatory practices.

While reducing healthcare costs for providers, establishing a fee-for-service model, and promoting competition among healthcare providers can be outcomes or associated goals of the ACA, they do not encapsulate the primary intent of the legislation, which is fundamentally centered on expanding access and protecting consumers.