What does the Office of Audit Services focus on within the OIG?

The focus of the Office of Audit Services (OAS) within the Office of Inspector General (OIG) is primarily on conducting financial audits and assessments of healthcare programs and entities. This area of oversight is crucial as it ensures that funds are being utilized efficiently and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. By performing these audits, the OAS helps identify areas where government programs can be improved, where funds may be misallocated, or where fraud may exist. This contributes to the overall integrity and accountability of healthcare spending.

In contrast, the other options mentioned, such as patient assistance programs, healthcare marketing strategies, and public health outreach initiatives, do not fall under the specific purview of the Office of Audit Services. These areas may be important in their own rights but relate more to service delivery, policy promotion, or community health rather than financial oversight and compliance. The role of the OAS is distinctively centered on financial accountability and integrity within healthcare operations, making the choice concerning financial audits and assessments the appropriate focus area.