What may periodic internal audits aim to evaluate?

Periodic internal audits in a medical practice primarily aim to evaluate coding and compliance of medical records. This is crucial for ensuring accurate documentation and adherence to regulatory standards, as errors or discrepancies in coding can lead to significant financial penalties and compliance issues. By focusing on coding practices and the integrity of medical records, the audit helps guarantee that the information submitted for billing is correct and reflects the services provided, thus safeguarding against fraud and abuse.

Although other aspects, such as financial performance and marketing strategies, are also important for a practice's overall health, the specific emphasis of periodic internal audits lies in the clinical and documentation practices that directly impact compliance and reimbursement. Hence, evaluating coding and compliance is essential for maintaining the integrity and operational efficacy of the practice.