Which marketplace is typically established at the state or regional level to provide options for small businesses to purchase coverage?

• A. Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP)
• B. Federally Facilitated Marketplace
• C. State-Based Marketplace
• D. Navigators Program

Answer: (A)

Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) is the marketplace designed for small employers to offer and purchase health coverage for their employees. It is set up at the state or regional level so employers can compare plans from participating insurers that fit the size and needs of their workforce, often with access to small‑business tax credits. The other options aren’t focused on small employers as the marketplace: the Federally Facilitated Marketplace serves individual enrollment (and in some states also handles small-business enrollment where state options aren’t available), a State-Based Marketplace typically refers to marketplaces run for individuals rather than a dedicated small-business channel, and the Navigators Program provides guidance to consumers during enrollment rather than serving as a purchasing marketplace.