What is the primary mission of the Office of Inspector General (OIG)?

The primary mission of the Office of Inspector General (OIG) is to protect the integrity of health program beneficiaries. This mission focuses on promoting the efficiency and effectiveness of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) programs and combating fraud, waste, and abuse within these programs. By safeguarding the interests of beneficiaries, the OIG ensures that individuals receive the appropriate services and supports they are entitled to, fostering trust and accountability within the healthcare system.

This role is essential in maintaining the integrity of healthcare services delivered to beneficiaries. The OIG conducts audits, evaluations, investigations, and compliance reviews with the aim of ensuring that healthcare providers adhere to federal laws and regulations, thereby protecting the public interest. Through its oversight responsibilities, the OIG plays a crucial part in preserving the quality of care provided to beneficiaries and ensuring that they are treated fairly under the health programs.

In contrast, while ensuring quality patient care in hospitals and managing healthcare costs are important aspects of the healthcare landscape, they are not the primary missions of the OIG. Compliance training is also a significant element of healthcare operations, but it is more of a function within a broader compliance structure rather than the central mission of the OIG.