This article “3 Keys to Hospice Oversight Preparation” emphasizes the importance of compliance and audit readiness for hospice providers, given increased scrutiny from CMS and the FBI due to hospice fraud. Here are the three strategies highlighted:
- Evaluate staff documentation habits: Establish a baseline for documentation accuracy and speed. Address issues like lack of understanding, slow typing, or bad handwriting, and emphasize the importance of proper documentation.
- Teach the “why”: Educate staff on the importance of accurate documentation and the potential consequences of failed audits. Both bedside clinicians and back-office employees should understand their roles in maintaining compliance and quality care.
- Empower staff through changes: Implement quick wins and create champions for change. Adopt technology solutions like cloud-based HIPAA-compliant tools to simplify documentation. Partner with supportive technology providers to customize tools for better compliance and workflow efficiency.
These strategies aim to ensure high-quality patient care while maintaining regulatory compliance.