What is the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) external audit program that works to reduce Medicare improper payments?

The Recovery Audit Contractors (RACs) program is a critical initiative established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) aimed at identifying and reducing improper payments made under the Medicare program. The main purpose of the RACs is to conduct audits of Medicare claims to ensure that payments made to healthcare providers are accurate and compliant with Medicare regulations.

These contractors review claims and are tasked with identifying overpayments and underpayments. When inaccuracies are found, they work to recover funds that were incorrectly paid out, which ultimately helps safeguard the integrity of the Medicare program and ensures that taxpayer dollars are used appropriately. The program aligns with broader efforts to enhance oversight and accountability in Medicare payments, thus contributing significantly to reducing the incidence of fraud and abuse within the system.

In contrast, the other choices represent different initiatives or aspects of healthcare management but do not specifically focus on auditing for the purpose of reducing improper payments in Medicare. Quality Assurance Programs typically deal with improving care quality rather than payment accuracy. Patient Safety Initiatives concentrate on enhancing patient safety and care practices. Medicare Beneficiary Outreach is involved in educating beneficiaries about their rights and the services available to them, rather than auditing claims. This makes the Recovery Audit Contractors (RACs) distinctly focused on reducing improper payments within