With the economic downturn of the past few years, many Americans have been forced to lower their expenses. In some cases, people have elected to go without certain care because they simply couldn't afford it. Medical care is one area in which some have "cut corners" on in order to make ends meet.

Under the Affordable Care Act, many costs associated with health care will no longer stand as a barrier preventing people from seeing a doctor. Research firm Towers Watson believes that a surge in health care services can be expected.

"In this economic climate, many Americans have delayed or avoided visits to the doctor because they were concerned about the costs they might have to incur," says Towers Watson senior health care consultant Randall Abbott. "Now, covered individuals and their families will not face even nominal financial barriers to preventive care services."

With new health care regulation, more people will qualify for Medicare. For those who don't qualify for Medicare, health care exchanges may prove to be an affordable option for health insurance. Increased regulation of private health insurance companies is also designed to keep costs down.