What is the primary focus of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding nursing homes?

The primary focus of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in relation to nursing homes is to oversee the quality of care and ensure compliance with federal regulations. CMS plays a critical role in establishing standards that nursing facilities must meet to participate in Medicare and Medicaid programs. This oversight includes conducting inspections, monitoring care quality, and enforcing regulations designed to protect the health and safety of residents.

By prioritizing quality of care, CMS aims to improve outcomes for residents, ensuring that they receive safe and effective services. This encompasses a wide range of aspects, including patient care practices, resident rights, and facility management. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the fundamental mission of CMS in safeguarding the interests of nursing home residents through regulatory oversight and quality enhancement initiatives.

Although cost reduction, nutrition management, and staff training are important components of a well-functioning nursing home, they do not encapsulate the overarching responsibility of CMS in ensuring that every resident receives the highest quality of care within a regulated framework.