Which of the following describes CMS responsibilities?

• A. Enforces all HIPAA privacy and security standards
• B. Runs Medicare, Medicaid, and other government health programs
• C. Regulates hospital accreditation
• D. Manages veterans’ health care programs

Answer: (B)

This question tests understanding of which federal agency administers the government health programs. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is the federal agency responsible for running Medicare, Medicaid, and other government health programs. That means CMS sets policies, processes provider enrollment, and directs payments for these programs. It does not enforce HIPAA privacy and security standards—that role belongs to the Office for Civil Rights within HHS. It also does not regulate hospital accreditation; accreditation is typically carried out by private accrediting organizations, though CMS may rely on accreditation status for Medicare participation. And veterans’ health care programs are managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, not CMS. So the description that CMS runs Medicare, Medicaid, and other government health programs best fits its responsibilities.