What is the main purpose of the DEA in relation to healthcare?

The main purpose of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in relation to healthcare is to enforce the controlled substance laws. This involves regulating the manufacture, distribution, and prescription of drugs classified as controlled substances, which have the potential for abuse and dependency. The DEA establishes a system of scheduling for these substances, which categorizes them based on their medical use, potential for abuse, and safety or dependence liability. By strictly regulating these substances, the DEA aims to prevent misuse and ensure that medications are prescribed and used safely within healthcare settings.

In contrast, regulating diet supplements typically falls under the purview of other organizations like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), while overseeing healthcare workers' licenses is usually managed by various state licensing boards. Promoting healthcare accessibility is an important aspect of healthcare policy but is not the primary role of the DEA, which focuses specifically on drug enforcement and regulation.