Supreme Court Reviews ACA’s No-Cost Preventive Health Requirement

In an influential legal battle, Kennedy v. Braidwood Management Inc., the Affordable Care Act's (ACA) no-cost preventive health services requirement is being scrutinized.

This case, which will be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court, is crucial because it challenges the ACA provision mandating that health insurance plans cover essential preventive services like cancer screenings and vaccinations at no charge to patients.

The American Medical Association (AMA) has joined forces with several patient organizations and professional medical societies to present an amicus brief in support of maintaining these provisions, highlighting the significant health and cost benefits derived from early detection and treatment of illnesses.

Studies backing this requirement demonstrate that no-cost access to preventive services significantly increases patient engagement in these services, thereby enhancing early diagnosis and improving health outcomes. As debates continue, the outcome of this case could substantially influence the future of preventive healthcare in the U.S.