Who can obtain individual health insurance coverage under the ACA?

Individuals who do not receive insurance from their employer can obtain individual health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The ACA was designed to expand health insurance access to a broader range of individuals, including those who might not have employment-based coverage. This includes self-employed individuals, those working for small employers that do not provide health insurance, and anyone who is unemployed.

The ACA established health insurance marketplaces where individuals can compare plans and purchase insurance, often with the benefit of subsidies based on income, which helps to make coverage more affordable. This regulatory framework specifically aims to fill gaps in coverage, ensuring that individuals who lack employer-sponsored insurance have access to necessary health care services.

The other options either limit the scope of who can obtain coverage under the ACA or do not align with the provisions under the law. For example, employees of large companies typically have access to employer-sponsored plans, and government employees generally have their own health coverage options. Additionally, the ACA's provisions are not restricted solely to low-income individuals, as it caters to a wide demographic, providing coverage across various income levels.