Which federal agency is responsible for implementing the ACA?

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is specifically tasked with the implementation of key aspects of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This agency operates under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and plays a pivotal role in administering the health insurance programs created and regulated by the ACA, including the establishment of health insurance marketplaces and overseeing the expansion of Medicaid.

CMS also oversees the implementation of various provisions related to Medicaid and Medicare, improved care delivery, and the management of health insurance regulations that ensure the coverage provided meets the standards set forth by the ACA. While HHS provides overall leadership and policy direction, CMS directly executes many ACA initiatives, making it the crucial agency for ACA implementation.

In contrast, the other agencies mentioned have different responsibilities that do not directly involve the implementation of the ACA. The FDA is focused on regulations regarding food safety and pharmaceutical approvals, while the Office of Management and Budget is mainly concerned with budgetary processes and governmental finance rather than health care policy.