According to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which of the following coverages is NOT mandatory?

The answer identifying cosmetic surgery as the coverage that is not mandatory under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is accurate because the ACA specifies certain essential health benefits that must be covered by health insurance plans. These essential health benefits include coverage for prescription drugs, preventive services, mental health services, and several other categories that are deemed crucial for providing comprehensive health care.

Cosmetic surgery, however, does not fall under these essential health benefits as defined by the ACA. Instead, it is typically considered elective and is not necessary for maintaining health, which is why the law does not require health plans to cover it. This distinction highlights the ACA's focus on providing necessary medical care rather than elective procedures that are often sought for aesthetic purposes.

Therefore, while the ACA ensures extensive coverage for various essential health services, cosmetic surgery remains outside the scope of mandatory coverage requirements established by the legislation.