The Affordable Care Act at 10: Increased Coverage but Ongoing Debate over Costs and Choice
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The Affordable Care Act (ACA), known as Obamacare, expanded health insurance coverage to millions more Americans. However, debate continues over whether it has successfully reformed the U.S. healthcare system.
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Supporters argue Obamacare has greatly increased access to health insurance and ended discriminatory industry practices. Critics counter that costs remain high and the law reduced consumer choice.
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The public has warmed to Obamacare over time, but Republicans still aim to repeal or significantly roll back the law if they regain power.
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Experts disagree on whether the ACA's heavy regulations have helped or hurt affordability and quality of coverage.
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Further reforms likely needed, but there are conflicting views on whether a universal single-payer system or a market-based approach is best.