What is the primary role of the Office of the Inspector General (OIG)?

The primary role of the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is focused on detecting and preventing fraud and abuse within healthcare programs, particularly those funded by the federal government, such as Medicare and Medicaid. The OIG investigates allegations of wrongdoing, ensures compliance with laws and regulations, and implements measures to prevent fraud. By conducting audits, evaluations, and investigations, the OIG plays a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of programs and ensuring that funds are used properly to benefit patients.

In this context, while the other options involve important aspects of the healthcare system, they do not capture the essence of the OIG's primary function. Licensing healthcare providers falls under the purview of different regulatory bodies. Regulating medical products is managed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and funding healthcare programs is typically the responsibility of various government entities, not the OIG. This delineation of responsibilities is essential for understanding the specific focus of the OIG compared to other healthcare oversight functions.