After being introduced under PPACA, the law stipulated that starting in 2014, for all plans, “essential benefits” could not have annual or dollar limitations imposed on them (although the number of provider visits could be limited).
The following are identified as non-essential: acupuncture, chiropractic care, vision exams, hearing aids, hospice care, obesity surgery, infertility treatments, TMJ, orthotic braces, wigs (following chemotherapy), food supplements, and ostomy supplies. Non-essential services can have dollar limitations (either annual or per visit) placed on them, under PPACA. Benefits not listed are considered “essential benefits” and cannot have dollar limits- including home health care, durable medical equipment, etc. Some of the non-essential services are not encompassed under Covered Services (such as acupuncture).
