What essential health benefits are required under the ACA?

The correct answer highlights the essential health benefits mandated by the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which include preventive and wellness services as well as management of chronic diseases. Under the ACA, several categories of essential health benefits are necessary for qualifying health plans, ensuring that basic health care needs are met for individuals and families.

Preventive and wellness services play a key role in maintaining health and preventing disease, such as vaccinations, screenings, and counseling. Additionally, the management of chronic diseases is crucial as it addresses ongoing care needs for conditions like diabetes or hypertension, ensuring that individuals receive the support necessary to manage their health effectively.

The other options do not encompass the wider range of essential health benefits specified by the ACA. While hospitalization services and emergency services are important, they represent only a fraction of the comprehensive coverage that the ACA seeks to provide. Specialty services and luxury health options, on the other hand, are not part of the essential health benefits, as the ACA focuses on ensuring broad access to essential care rather than luxurious or elective enhancements. Therefore, the answer reflects the ACA’s intent to provide comprehensive and accessible health care for all.