Which organization oversees the operation of Medicare programs?

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is the correct answer because it is the federal agency specifically responsible for overseeing the Medicare program, which provides health insurance to individuals aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. CMS manages the implementation and administration of Medicare policies, overseeing enrollment, benefits, and compliance with regulations.

CMS also plays a crucial role in overseeing Medicaid, which operates alongside Medicare for low-income individuals. It develops guidelines and regulations to ensure the programs operate efficiently and effectively, making it the central authority for both programs in the U.S. healthcare system.

In contrast, other organizations like the National Health Service operates primarily in the United Kingdom and is not involved with Medicare. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provides broader oversight of public health and welfare programs but delegates the specific management of Medicare to CMS. The Social Security Administration handles aspects of Social Security benefits, including some Medicare enrollments, but does not administer the Medicare program itself.