Under the ACA, what does guaranteed issue require?

• A. Insurers can deny coverage for preexisting conditions
• B. Insurers must offer only high-deductible plans
• C. Insurers must cover applicants regardless of health status
• D. Insurers must cover only emergency services

Answer: (C)

Guaranteed issue means insurers must issue a policy to anyone who applies, regardless of health status or preexisting conditions. This ensures that health problems don’t block someone from getting coverage, aligning with the ACA’s aim to expand access to insurance for all.

That’s why the correct choice is that insurers must cover applicants regardless of health status. The other options conflict with guaranteed issue: denying coverage for preexisting conditions would violate this principle; requiring only high-deductible plans isn’t a requirement and would limit plan types; and covering only emergency services doesn’t reflect the comprehensive coverage protections guaranteed to applicants.