What is the primary purpose of the Federally-facilitated Marketplace (FFM)?

The primary purpose of the Federally-facilitated Marketplace (FFM) is to allow individuals and small businesses to compare and purchase health insurance plans. This marketplace was established under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to create a centralized platform where consumers can easily access a variety of health insurance options. The marketplace aims to improve transparency in pricing and coverage options, enabling consumers to make informed choices that best fit their needs and budgets.

By centralizing these services, the FFM also helps facilitate enrollment in health insurance, particularly for those who may qualify for subsidies or other assistance programs. This focus on individual and small business access is aligned with the goals of increasing health insurance coverage and ensuring more people have the opportunity to secure affordable care.

The other options outlined, although relevant to the overall health insurance landscape, do not capture the essence of the FFM's primary function. The marketplace is not primarily a platform for insurance companies to operate, nor does it focus on employer benefits or regulatory roles, which are handled by other entities and frameworks within the health care system.