Which of the following is NOT identified as a special area of OIG concern?

The correct answer highlights that patient preference compliance is not categorized as a special area of concern by the Office of Inspector General (OIG). The OIG primarily focuses on issues that significantly impact healthcare compliance and the integrity of the healthcare system.

Billing for items not rendered, medically unnecessary services, and financial arrangements with physicians are critical areas of concern because they directly relate to fraudulent practices and potential violations of healthcare laws. These issues can lead to significant legal repercussions and financial penalties for healthcare providers, and they undermine trust in the healthcare system.

In contrast, while patient preferences are important in delivering quality care, they do not typically fall into the same category of compliance issues that the OIG specifically monitors. Patient preferences may be a part of clinical practice and patient-centered care initiatives but do not have the same implications for regulatory compliance and fraud, waste, and abuse as the other options mentioned. This distinction is essential for understanding the focus of OIG's oversight responsibilities.