Which statement correctly distinguishes a QHP, MEC, and EHB?
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why A is correct
The three terms operate at different levels. Essential Health Benefits (EHB) are the ten required benefit categories, such as hospitalization, prescription drugs, maternity, and pediatric care. Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) is coverage that satisfies the federal individual coverage requirement — employer plans, exchange plans, Medicare, Medi-Cal, and others. A Qualified Health Plan (QHP) is an exchange-certified individual or small-group plan that provides EHB and meets certification standards. These distinctions are tested under the ACA definitions objectives.
Why the other options are wrong
- B) The terms are distinct: EHB describes benefit categories, MEC describes mandate-satisfying coverage, and QHP describes exchange-certified plans.
- C) MEC is a floor, not the highest tier; metal tiers from Bronze through Platinum describe actuarial value levels on the exchange.
- D) EHB covers ten categories including hospitalization, maternity, and mental health, not only prescription drugs.
Memory hook
EHB = what's in the package; MEC = what satisfies the mandate; QHP = the package the exchange certifies.