Which federal regulation mandates health insurance companies to provide preventive care at no cost?

• A. The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA)
• B. The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA)
• C. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA)
• D. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

Answer: (C)

The Affordable Care Act requires health insurance plans to cover preventive services at no cost to the patient. This means screenings, immunizations, and counseling are paid for by the plan without copays, coinsurance, or deductibles when provided by an in-network provider. This approach encourages people to use preventive care to catch issues early and stay healthier. The other items listed aren’t federal requirements for no-cost preventive care: NCQA is an accrediting body, COBRA deals with continuing coverage after job loss, and HIPAA focuses on privacy and portability.