Medical Expense✓ Verified · outline & fact-checked · Sep 2026Difficulty 2/5
Which of the following is an essential health benefit (EHB) category that individual and small group plans must cover under the ACA?
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why D is correct
The ACA defines ten essential health benefit categories that individual and small group plans must cover, including hospitalization, ambulatory patient services, emergency services, maternity and newborn care, mental health and substance use disorder services, prescription drugs, rehabilitative and habilitative services, laboratory services, preventive and wellness services, and pediatric services including oral and vision care. Hospitalization is squarely within these required categories, so covered plans must include inpatient hospital benefits.
Why the other options are wrong
- A) Cosmetic surgery is elective and is not among the mandated essential health benefit categories.
- B) Long-term custodial care is generally excluded from EHB coverage, which is one reason LTC insurance exists.
- C) Over-the-counter vitamins are not a required benefit category; prescription drugs are covered, but vitamins are not typically included.
Memory hook
EHB = ten required categories. Hospitalization is in; cosmetic and custodial are out.