The Affordable Care Act, also known as “Obamacare”, is an act signed into law in March 2010 that aimed to extend health coverage to millions of uninsured Americans. When it took effect, this act changed the way Americans looked at health insurance, providing millions of people with insurance coverage.

The Affordable Care Act works to increase financial help for people who were uninsured or had trouble affording health insurance. To do this, it established new insurance marketplaces and allowed people to purchase health insurance through these marketplaces. It also expanded eligibility for Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program, allowing more people to access medical care.

The ACA also prevents insurance companies from denying coverage due to pre-existing conditions, meaning those who suffer from a pre-existing condition have access to insurance. Additionally, the ACA requires insurance companies to cover a list of essential health benefits, such as physical, mental and behavioral health services, emergency services and prescription drugs.

The Affordable Care Act has seen its own set of challenges over the years and has been criticized by some as leading to higher prices and lower quality of care. However, the ACA, with its reforms and greater access to health insurance, is credited with helping more Americans than ever access the care they need. It provides more people with the protection they need, enabling them to access health care regardless of their existing medical condition.

Overall, the Affordable Care Act provides benefits to millions of people in the US. It offers individuals the opportunity to purchase affordable health insurance through the marketplace, prevents insurance companies from denying coverage due to pre-existing conditions, and requires them to cover essential health services, ensuring Americans’ access to quality and affordable care.