What is the role of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)?

The role of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is primarily to administer the nation’s major healthcare programs, including Medicare. This involves overseeing the implementation and regulation of Medicare, ensuring that beneficiaries receive the healthcare services they need, and managing the budgets and policies that govern these programs. CMS plays a critical role in setting guidelines for coverage, determining payment policies for services, and monitoring the performance and quality of care provided under these programs.

Medicare, specifically, serves millions of older adults and some younger individuals with disabilities, providing essential health coverage. By managing Medicare, CMS not only facilitates access to necessary medical care but also helps to maintain standards of care and promotes efficiency within the program. This central role in administration is what distinguishes CMS from the other functions outlined in the choices, which do not directly relate to the core responsibilities of this agency.