What does the phrase "deeming authority" refer to?

The phrase "deeming authority" refers specifically to the process whereby an organization is recognized as meeting the standards set by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) through alternative means, such as accreditation by a nationally recognized accrediting organization. When an organization obtains this deeming authority, it can substitute compliance with those accreditation standards in place of direct compliance with CMS regulations for specific Medicare or Medicaid requirements. This arrangement streamlines the regulatory framework, allowing accredited organizations to benefit from a more efficient review process while ensuring they maintain high standards of care that align with federal regulations.

In contrast, utilizing state laws to enhance patient rights focuses on state-level legislation rather than the CMS's accreditation compliance. Allowing organizations to independently assess compliance speaks more to self-assessment rather than the formal accreditation process that grants deeming authority. Lastly, implementing federal regulations in state programs does not define the concept of deeming authority, which is centered on how accreditation can serve as an alternative to direct CMS oversight.