What type of insurance plan often includes coverage for preventive care visits without a co-pay?

Marketplace plans, often established through health insurance exchanges, typically include coverage for preventive care visits at no additional cost to the consumer, meaning these services are covered without any co-pay. This design is in alignment with the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which mandates that essential health benefits, including preventive services, must be offered without cost-sharing in many health plans.

Preventive care is critical for maintaining health and avoiding additional costs related to untreated conditions, so including these services without a co-pay encourages individuals to utilize them. This promotes early detection and can lead to better health outcomes for individuals, potentially reducing healthcare costs overall.

In contrast, indemnity plans may have varied coverage structures and might not prioritize preventive care without co-pays. High-deductible plans often come with significant out-of-pocket expenses before benefits kick in, which may apply to preventive visits as well. Employer-sponsored plans can vary greatly depending on the employer's choices and may not universally include no-cost preventive care.