What must all health benefit plans issued after January 1, 2014 provide?

Health benefit plans issued after January 1, 2014, are required to provide essential health benefits that include preventative health services. This mandate is part of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which was designed to improve the quality of healthcare and expand access to health coverage. Preventative health services are key components of this, as they help to identify and address health issues before they become more serious and costly. These services may include vaccinations, screenings for various conditions, and counseling on healthy lifestyles, all of which contribute to better overall health outcomes for the insured population.

The requirement for preventative services underscores the emphasis on disease prevention and health promotion in modern healthcare, which not only benefits individuals but can also lead to lower healthcare costs over time. By ensuring these services are covered without charging a copayment or coinsurance, the ACA aims to encourage individuals to take proactive steps towards their health.