Under aca section 1557, a health plan premium sold through a state exchange may, based on an individual’s age and

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under aca section 1557, a health plan premium sold through a state exchange may, based on an individual’s age and

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under aca section 1557, a health plan premium sold through a state exchange may, based on an individual’s age and

Answer: Under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), a health plan premium sold through a state exchange (also known as a health insurance marketplace) cannot discriminate against an individual based on various protected characteristics, including age. The ACA prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, and age.

Regarding age-based discrimination and health plan premiums:

  1. Age Rating Restrictions: The ACA sets limits on the variation in health insurance premiums based on age. Insurers are allowed to charge older adults (those in the older age group) up to three times the premium amount charged to younger adults (those in the younger age group). This is known as the “3:1 age rating ratio.”

  2. Equal Treatment: The ACA ensures that individuals of the same age are treated equally when it comes to health plan premiums. It prohibits insurers from charging different premium rates to individuals of the same age solely based on other protected characteristics.

The goal of Section 1557 is to promote equitable access to health care and prevent discrimination based on various factors, including age. This provision aims to ensure that individuals have fair and equal access to health insurance coverage and related services, regardless of their age or other protected characteristics.