Which type of care was updated to be covered at no cost under the ACA of 2010?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010 made significant reforms to the healthcare system, particularly in terms of access to various types of care. One of the key components of the ACA is the emphasis on preventive care services, which include screenings, counseling, and immunizations designed to prevent diseases and maintain health.

Under the ACA, certain preventive services are mandated to be provided at no cost to patients, meaning that individuals do not have to pay deductibles, co-pays, or coinsurance for these services when receiving care from an in-network provider. This provision aims to encourage more individuals to engage in preventive health measures, thus reducing the risk of more serious health issues and lowering overall healthcare costs in the long run.

While emergency room visits, surgical procedures, and medication prescriptions are important aspects of healthcare, the ACA specifically highlights preventive care services as a critical area for cost-free access. This focus on preventive care represents a shift towards managing health proactively rather than reactively treating illnesses after they arise.