What is the primary focus of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA)?

The primary focus of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) is to mandate national standards for federally funded nursing homes and home health agencies. Established in 1987, OBRA aimed to improve the quality of care in these facilities by setting specific requirements that nursing homes must meet to receive federal funding. These standards encompass various aspects of resident care, including safety, quality of life, and staff training.

Thus, OBRA plays a critical role in ensuring that individuals receiving care in federally supported environments have access to safe and dignified services, reinforcing a standard of care that providers must adhere to. High standards lead to better patient outcomes, highlighting the importance of this legislation in the landscape of healthcare regulation.

The other options focus on elements that are either not a direct goal of OBRA or are addressed in different ways through other regulations and policies, indicating that while they may relate to healthcare, they do not capture the core intent of OBRA.