Which of the following statements about health insurance practices is accurate?

The statement that the ACA mandates non-discrimination policies across several categories is correct because the Affordable Care Act (ACA) includes provisions designed to prevent discrimination in health insurance based on factors such as age, gender, race, ethnicity, and disability. This means that health insurance plans cannot impose different rules regarding coverage or premium costs based on these characteristics. The law aims to promote equality in access to health care services, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to obtain insurance without facing unfair barriers related to these attributes.

Understanding this principle is crucial for recognizing the broader goals of the ACA, which include expanding access to health care and reducing disparities in the health care system. This non-discriminatory approach is a fundamental aspect of the protections provided under the Act, emphasizing the importance of fairness in health insurance practices.

In contrast, certain other options imply acceptance of discriminatory practices—such as age discrimination in certain scenarios or gender-based marketing—but these do not align with the ACA's intent to create a more equitable healthcare environment. Additionally, stating that insurance companies have free reign in their offerings overlooks the regulations put in place by the ACA to guide and limit such practices.