Who is responsible for investigating and prosecuting health care fraud and abuse?

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) is primarily responsible for investigating and prosecuting health care fraud and abuse. The OIG operates within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and plays a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of federal health care programs like Medicare and Medicaid. The OIG conducts audits, investigations, and evaluations to detect fraud and abuse, ensuring compliance with regulations and laws governing health care practices.

The OIG's mission includes identifying and eliminating opportunities for fraud, as well as promoting efficiency and effectiveness within HHS programs. By collaborating with other agencies, including the DOJ and CMS, the OIG strengthens the federal response to healthcare fraud, thereby contributing to a more reliable healthcare system.

The other entities mentioned have specific roles but do not lead investigations into health care fraud as their primary function. The Department of Justice prosecutes cases and often works in conjunction with the OIG, while the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services focuses on overseeing those programs and ensuring they operate effectively. The Federal Bureau of Investigation does investigate some health care fraud cases but is not dedicated solely to that purpose, as its jurisdiction spans a broader range of criminal activities.