The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is the federal agency responsible for administering the nation's major health care programs including Medicare and Medicaid. CMS establishes regulations and standards that long-term care facilities must adhere to in order to receive funding and participate in these programs. This oversight is crucial to ensure that the facilities provide quality care to residents while also complying with existing healthcare laws and policies.
CMS handles a broad range of responsibilities, from setting health and safety standards to conducting inspections and enforcement actions against facilities that do not comply with regulations. By focusing on these specific aspects, it plays a vital role in maintaining accountability and ensuring that the care delivered meets established quality benchmarks.
The other agencies listed have distinct roles unrelated to the oversight of Medicare and Medicaid regulations. For instance, the CDC primarily focuses on public health and disease control; the FDA regulates food safety, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices; while the NIH is dedicated to medical research. Their functions do not encompass the specific regulation and oversight responsibilities that CMS has in relation to long-term care facilities.