How many private national accreditation organizations does CMS approve as of October 2021?

The correct choice indicates that as of October 2021, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) approved 12 private national accreditation organizations. This is significant because these organizations play a critical role in evaluating and ensuring the quality of healthcare services provided by various healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and nursing homes. They assess compliance with specific performance standards, which helps maintain a level of quality assurance within the healthcare system.

Understanding the number of accredited organizations is essential for stakeholders in healthcare, including providers, payers, and patients, as it can influence the accreditation process and the availability of services. The knowledge that there are 12 approved organizations signifies the breadth of standards and methodologies in evaluating healthcare quality across the nation. Each of these organizations may have unique criteria and approaches, which contributes to a diverse landscape of accreditation practices, ultimately aimed at enhancing patient care and safety.