What is one significant outcome that the ACA aims to achieve in health care spending?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) aims primarily to reduce the overall cost of healthcare while simultaneously improving the quality and efficiency of the healthcare delivery system. This outcome is significant because rising healthcare costs have been a major burden for both individuals and the economy as a whole.

The ACA introduces various provisions such as the establishment of health insurance marketplaces, subsidies to assist individuals in obtaining coverage, and an expansion of Medicaid in some states. These measures are designed to increase access to affordable health insurance, thereby reducing out-of-pocket expenses for individuals. Additionally, the ACA promotes preventive care, encourages the use of evidence-based treatment practices, and implements payment reforms that incentivize quality over quantity of care.

This focus on cost reduction and improved delivery not only benefits patients by making healthcare more accessible but also aims to stabilize health insurance markets and reduce the financial strain on government programs. The other options do not align with ACA goals; for instance, the ACA strives to enhance the role of private insurance rather than eliminate it, and while it aims for broader access to coverage, it does not guarantee healthcare for every citizen in an absolute sense.