What is prohibited by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 (OBRA)?

The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 (OBRA) specifically addresses the issue of financial relationships in healthcare, particularly concerning referrals for certain services. The prohibition on referring lab specimens to entities with which there is a financial relationship is aimed at preventing potential conflicts of interest and ensuring that medical decisions are made based on patient care rather than financial incentives. This regulation is crucial in maintaining the integrity of medical referrals and ensuring compliance with anti-kickback statutes, which are designed to protect patients and promote ethical practices in healthcare.

In contrast, the other options do not specifically fall under the prohibitions established by OBRA. Referring patients to hospitals is a common practice and does not inherently violate any regulations unless there are improper financial incentives involved. Billing for laboratory services is typically permissible as long as it complies with relevant coding and billing regulations. Conducting medical research is also generally allowed, provided that it adheres to ethical guidelines and regulatory requirements. Thus, the correct choice reflects a specific prohibition linked to maintaining ethical standards and compliance within the healthcare system.