Which healthcare reform accelerated changes in the healthcare system since 2010?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) stands out as the pivotal healthcare reform that has driven significant changes in the healthcare system since its enactment in 2010. The ACA introduced a range of provisions aimed at expanding access to healthcare, reducing costs, and improving the quality of care.

One of the key features of the ACA was the expansion of Medicaid eligibility and the creation of health insurance marketplaces, which aimed to provide insurance coverage to millions of uninsured Americans. This expansion has led to a significant increase in the number of people who have health insurance, thereby reducing the rate of uninsured individuals in the United States.

Additionally, the ACA implemented various reforms targeting healthcare delivery and payment models, such as the introduction of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) and value-based purchasing initiatives. These changes aimed to incentivize healthcare providers to focus on quality and outcomes rather than the volume of services provided, ultimately transforming how care is delivered.

The emphasis on preventive care, the requirement for insurers to cover pre-existing conditions, and the introduction of essential health benefits are also significant components of the law that have reshaped the healthcare landscape.

In contrast, the other options, such as the Inpatient Prospective Payment System, the Balanced Budget Act, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability