Final answer:
The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, introduced popular benefits such as increased access to health insurance, protection for people with pre-existing conditions, and coverage for essential health benefits.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, had several popular benefits:
- Increased access to health insurance: The ACA expanded eligibility for Medicaid and provided subsidies to help individuals and families afford insurance plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace.
- Protection for people with pre-existing conditions: Before the ACA, insurance companies could deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on pre-existing conditions. The ACA prohibits such discrimination, ensuring that people with pre-existing conditions have access to affordable coverage.
- Essential health benefits: The ACA requires insurance plans to cover essential health benefits, including preventive services, hospitalizations, prescription drugs, and mental health services.