Which entity is primarily responsible for enforcing resident care standards in nursing facilities?

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) plays a crucial role in regulating nursing facilities and ensuring that they adhere to resident care standards. CMS sets forth guidelines and regulations that nursing homes must follow in order to participate in Medicare and Medicaid programs, which provide essential funding and support for these facilities. Through periodic inspections and audits, CMS monitors compliance with these standards, addressing any deficiencies to protect residents' health and safety.

This accountability mechanism is vital because it helps maintain a baseline quality of care across nursing facilities, ensuring that residents receive appropriate services, support, and protection. While state health departments also play a role in regulation, primarily at the state level, and other entities may provide guidance or support, the overarching authority associated with enforcing standards in nursing homes, particularly in relation to federal programs, lies with CMS. This makes it clear why this choice is the authoritative answer in terms of enforcement of care standards in nursing facilities.