What are health insurance exchanges?

• A. Online marketplaces to compare and purchase insurance plans
• B. Government-run clinics
• C. Employer benefit portals
• D. Private hospital networks

Answer: (A)

Health insurance exchanges are online marketplaces that bring together multiple insurance plans so individuals and small employers can compare options and enroll. They show plans side by side with key details like premiums, deductibles, out-of-pocket costs, networks, and covered benefits, making it easier to see what each plan offers. They also determine eligibility for financial help, such as premium tax credits, based on income and household size, and guide users through the enrollment process. These exchanges are about choosing and purchasing coverage from different insurers, not about clinics, employer portals, or hospital networks.