Which U.S. federal agency is responsible for administering Medicare?

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is the agency responsible for administering Medicare. Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, but it also serves certain younger individuals with disabilities. CMS oversees the implementation of Medicare policies, the management of Medicare funds, and the oversight of health care providers participating in the program.

CMS is crucial in ensuring that the Medicare program meets its objectives, which include providing affordable health care to eligible seniors and individuals with disabilities. This agency also plays a significant role in educating beneficiaries about their options, ensuring quality care through regulations, and improving the management of healthcare delivery.

While the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) encompasses various health-related functions and oversees CMS, it is not directly responsible for the administration of Medicare. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) focuses on medical research rather than health insurance administration, and the Social Security Administration (SSA) plays a role in determining eligibility for Medicare, but it does not administer the program itself. Thus, CMS is the correct and direct answer regarding Medicare administration.