What is a recommended priority for creating a culture of compliance according to CMS?

Focusing on making compliance plans a priority reflects a foundational element in establishing a culture of compliance. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), embedding compliance within the organization is essential to ensuring that all employees understand the regulations, guidelines, and ethical standards that govern their roles.

Establishing robust compliance plans signifies an organization's commitment to adhering to legal and ethical standards, which is critical in avoiding risks such as fraud, waste, and abuse. A strong compliance plan provides guidance on policies and procedures that need to be followed, and facilitates training and communication about compliance issues among the staff. Prioritizing compliance helps to safeguard against potential legal challenges, enhances the integrity of billing practices, and ultimately contributes to better patient care.

Furthermore, having a well-implemented compliance plan can foster an organizational culture where compliance is a shared responsibility, leading to more transparent practices and encouraging staff to report issues without fear of retaliation. This can significantly enhance the quality of care, trust in the system, and ensure that the organization operates efficiently and ethically.