Which agency has the authority to approve or disapprove plans for sale?

The agency that has the authority to approve or disapprove plans for sale is the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). CMS plays a crucial role in regulating health insurance programs and ensuring that health plans comply with federal standards before they can be offered to consumers.

This oversight includes evaluating the design of the health plans, their benefits, and the overall compliance with legislation, such as the Affordable Care Act. CMS also monitors the quality of healthcare services provided under these plans. Their approval is essential for plans that seek to be part of Medicare and Medicaid, as well as those involved in the Health Insurance Marketplace.

The other agencies mentioned do perform important roles within the healthcare system but do not have the same level of authority regarding the approval of health plans specifically for sale to consumers. The Department of Insurance generally focuses on the regulation of insurance practices at the state level, yet it does not have the same federal jurisdiction as CMS. The National Health Organization and the Federal Insurance Administration do not exist with the specific mandate of approving or disapproving healthcare plans in the way that CMS does.