Which agency is responsible for overseeing federal healthcare quality programs?

The correct answer is the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) because this agency plays a critical role in overseeing federal healthcare quality programs in the United States. CMS is responsible for administering the nation’s major healthcare programs, including Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). It develops and enforces regulatory standards, ensures quality of care, and implements quality improvement initiatives aimed at promoting better patient outcomes and efficiency within healthcare.

CMS also monitors healthcare providers and organizations to ensure compliance with established quality standards. They work on various performance measurement and reporting initiatives such as the Hospital Compare and the Quality Improvement Organizations (QIO) programs, which aim to enhance the quality of care provided to beneficiaries.

Other choices do not have the same direct responsibility for overseeing federal healthcare quality programs. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) primarily focuses on regulating food, drugs, and medical devices rather than healthcare quality programs. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is engaged in medical research and public health initiatives but does not oversee healthcare programs directly. The World Health Organization (WHO) is an international agency involved in global health initiatives and policies but does not manage U.S. federal healthcare quality programs. Thus, CMS stands out as the authority on this matter.