What does the abbreviation "CMS" stand for in healthcare?

The abbreviation "CMS" in healthcare stands for "Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services." This government agency plays a crucial role in overseeing and administering the nation’s major healthcare programs, particularly Medicare and Medicaid, which are vital for providing health coverage to millions of Americans. Medicare primarily serves individuals aged 65 and older, as well as some younger individuals with disabilities, while Medicaid provides health coverage for low-income individuals and families.

CMS also has significant influence over healthcare policies, regulations, payment models, and quality standards in the United States. Understanding CMS is essential for billing and coding specialists, as it directly affects reimbursement rates, compliance requirements, and patient coverage.

Though other options mention various healthcare services, they do not accurately represent the official name or functions of the agency. Therefore, the correct understanding of this abbreviation is paramount for professionals in the healthcare billing and coding field.