What is the primary role of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)?

The primary role of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is to administer healthcare programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. These programs are essential components of the U.S. healthcare system, providing health insurance coverage to millions of Americans, including the elderly, low-income individuals, and certain disabled persons. Through its administration, CMS sets policies, oversees program operations, and ensures compliance with federal regulations, which directly impacts access to healthcare services for these populations.

Medicare, aimed primarily at those aged 65 and older, and Medicaid, which assists low-income individuals, have specific eligibility criteria and benefits structures that CMS manages. The agency is also responsible for the quality of care in these programs, implementing measures to improve health outcomes and efficiency.

While pharmaceutical pricing, medical education, and public health campaigns are undoubtedly important aspects of the healthcare landscape, they do not fall within the core responsibilities of CMS. CMS's focus remains primarily on managing and sustaining the Medicare and Medicaid programs, making option B the most accurate representation of its primary role.