What is likely to affect audit results according to provider compliance?

The accuracy of documentation is crucial in the context of provider compliance and directly impacts audit results. Thorough and accurate documentation ensures that the services provided are appropriately supported by clinical evidence, which is critical for justifying the codes billed and the medical necessity of services rendered.

When documentation accurately reflects patient care, it minimizes discrepancies and increases the likelihood that the audit will yield favorable results. Inaccurate or incomplete documentation can lead to misunderstandings during the audit process, potentially resulting in identified compliance issues such as overcoding or undercoding, which can adversely affect reimbursement and compliance status.

In contrast, factors like the presence of attorneys during audits, declarations of non-conformance, and the duration of the audit period may influence the audit experience but do not inherently affect the accuracy and validity of the documentation itself. Therefore, maintaining precise and complete documentation is a foundational element in the effectiveness of audits and compliance with regulatory standards.