What is a key goal of the innovation fostered by the ACA?

A key goal of the innovation fostered by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is to improve efficiency and quality in the healthcare system. The ACA introduced several measures aimed at transforming healthcare delivery to ensure that it is not only more affordable but also delivers better outcomes for patients. This includes the establishment of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs), which incentivize providers to work together to provide coordinated care, thereby reducing duplication of services and ultimately lowering costs while enhancing patient care.

Additionally, the ACA supports value-based care initiatives, in which providers are rewarded for the quality of care they deliver rather than the number of services provided. This shift encourages healthcare systems to focus on health outcomes, patient satisfaction, and overall efficiency. Emphasizing these considerations leads to a more sustainable and effective healthcare system that prioritizes the needs and well-being of patients.

In contrast, the other options highlight aspects that do not align with the ACA's objectives. For instance, reducing healthcare quality or discouraging innovative healthcare models directly contradicts the ACA’s intent to foster an environment that embraces and promotes new, effective strategies to improve patient care. Similarly, limiting choices for patients would restrict patient access and autonomy, which goes against the ACA's foundational principles of expanding coverage and options for individuals.