Who has the authority to investigate claims of information blocking according to the ONC Cures Act?

The authority to investigate claims of information blocking according to the ONC Cures Act lies with the Office of Inspector General (OIG). The OIG is responsible for overseeing the integrity of health care programs and ensuring compliance with regulations. This includes investigating any practices that may violate information blocking policies, which are designed to ensure that patients can access their health information without unnecessary barriers.

The OIG conducts investigations and audits to enforce compliance and address any violations that might hinder the flow of health information, thereby supporting transparency and patient access to their medical records. This authority aligns with the OIG’s broader mission to promote efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability in health care services.

Other options do not have the specific mandate to investigate claims of information blocking. The Department of Health focuses on broader health policy and initiatives. The Health Information Management Association is an organization that supports professionals in health information management but does not hold investigative authority. The Federal Trade Commission primarily deals with consumer protection and antitrust laws, not directly related to information blocking within the context of healthcare.