Under the ACA, what are preventive services?

Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), preventive services refer to a range of healthcare services that aim to prevent illnesses or detect issues early on, which can lead to better health outcomes and lower overall healthcare costs. These services typically include vaccinations, screenings, and annual check-ups. A significant aspect of preventive services under the ACA is that they are often provided at no cost to the patient, meaning there are no copayments or deductibles associated with them when appropriate conditions are met.

This focus on preventive care aligns with the ACA's goals of improving public health and reducing the need for more complex and costly treatments that can arise when illnesses are not detected until they are advanced. By encouraging individuals to take advantage of preventive services, the ACA aims to enhance the overall health of the population while simultaneously aiming to decrease long-term healthcare expenses.