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Health Law and Regulations

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Health Law and Regulations
Federal regulations play a major role in the health care industry. Federal laws and regulations protect the American public from a number of health risks and administer programs for public welfare. Federal regulations also regulate the health insurance industry by implementing cost-containment measures. Through various regulatory bodies, Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) protects and regulates public health at every level. HHS is the United States principal federal agency for protecting the health of Americans and providing essential human services. HHS administers more grant dollars than all other federal agencies combined. Medicare program administered by HHS is nation’s largest health care insurance. HHS governs more than 300 programs administered by its 11 operating divisions (Department of Health & Human Services, 2011). In addition, Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is also part of the HHS. Description of each 300 programs is beyond the scope of this paper. However, it is imperative to understand the role of each operating agency and how it affects the health care industry.
Role of Federal Regulatory Agencies
Each operating division consists of sub-divisions making health care system a complex maze. Main 11 operating agencies are:
Administration for Children and Families (ACF)
The ACF provides funding for family assistance, child support, and childcare. The state, county, and city governments provide these services (Department of Health & Human Services, 2011).
Administration on Aging (AOA)
The AOA is responsible for developing a comprehensive, coordinated, and cost-effective system for the elderly individuals to maintain their health and independence in their homes (Department of Health & Human Services, 2011).
Agency for Health Care Research and Quality (AHRQ)
The AHRQ conducts research aimed at improving

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