What is expected to be the most significant effect of the Affordable Care Act on treating substance use disorders?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) significantly changed the landscape of healthcare in the United States, particularly regarding access to services for those with substance use disorders. The correct answer highlights the expansion of insurance benefits as a crucial effect of the ACA. This expansion meant that a larger population could access a broader range of healthcare services, including prevention and early intervention for substance use disorders.

By mandating that insurance plans cover mental health and substance use treatment at parity with physical health services, the ACA improved access for individuals who previously may not have had coverage or who faced significant out-of-pocket costs. This inclusion is instrumental in encouraging people to seek help sooner rather than later, potentially improving outcomes and reducing the prevalence of more severe addiction issues down the line.

The other options do not align with the overarching goals and outcomes of the ACA. Reducing the number of patients eligible for addiction care contradicts the intent of the legislation, which aimed to increase access. While increased Block Grant funding is beneficial for certain programs, it is not the most direct effect of the ACA. Lastly, although improvement in quality of life is a desirable outcome, the immediate, measurable effect of the ACA pertains more to expanding access to services rather than directly enhancing quality of life.