Which element is included as part of the essential health benefits through GCI?

Emergency services are a critical component of the essential health benefits outlined in healthcare plans offered through Get Covered Illinois. These services ensure that individuals have access to immediate medical care in situations where their health or life may be at risk. Emergency services typically include treatment in a hospital, urgent care, or ambulance transportation when necessary.

In contrast, while dental treatments and vision services can be important parts of overall health care, they are not universally classified as essential benefits under all health plans. Many plans may offer these services but often as separate or supplemental coverage rather than included as standard essential health benefits.

Cosmetic procedures, on the other hand, are generally not covered under essential health benefits because they are typically not deemed medically necessary. Therefore, only emergency services fit the criteria of being an essential health benefit that all qualifying plans must include under the Affordable Care Act as part of the comprehensive coverage offered through GCI.