What did the Affordable Care Act prohibit regarding pre-existing conditions?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) made significant changes to the health insurance landscape, particularly concerning individuals with pre-existing conditions. The law explicitly prohibits health insurance companies from denying coverage to individuals based on their health status or pre-existing conditions. This means that insurers cannot refuse to sell a policy or charge higher premiums based solely on a person's medical history, which is crucial for ensuring that those with chronic illnesses or past health issues have access to necessary healthcare services.

This protection helps to create a more equitable insurance market, where the risk is spread across a larger pool of insured individuals, and no one is left without insurance due to their health situation. By abolishing this practice, the ACA has ensured that all individuals, regardless of their previous medical issues, can obtain health insurance and receive the care they need.