Which act was designed to make healthcare more affordable for Americans?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) was specifically designed to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for Americans. Enacted in 2010, the ACA introduced significant reforms to the healthcare system, including the expansion of Medicaid, the establishment of health insurance marketplaces, and the implementation of regulations that prevent insurance companies from denying coverage based on pre-existing conditions.

One of the primary goals of the ACA was to reduce the number of uninsured individuals and to lower the overall costs of healthcare. By providing subsidies to help low- and middle-income families afford insurance, the ACA aimed to improve access to healthcare services. It also mandated that all Americans have health insurance or face a penalty, further emphasizing the act's commitment to enhancing coverage.

This legislation stands apart from the other acts listed, which address different aspects of healthcare. For instance, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act primarily focuses on protecting patient privacy and ensuring the portability of health insurance. The Patient Protection Act is often associated with the ACA but does not independently exist as a distinct piece of legislation aimed at affordability. The Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act primarily deals with payment reforms in Medicare and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), rather than directly addressing the affordability of healthcare for all Americans.