Why should an auditor concentrate on visits that took place during a specific period?

Concentrating on visits that took place during a specific period allows an auditor to effectively observe trends in healthcare delivery and practice patterns. By analyzing a defined timeframe, auditors can compare patient outcomes, service volumes, and billing practices to identify any shifts in patterns that may signal changes in efficiency or quality of care. Observing trends is essential for determining whether improvements have been made or if further intervention is needed. This can help healthcare organizations in making informed decisions regarding quality improvement initiatives or resource allocation.

Moreover, focusing on specific periods can reveal seasonal variations or effects related to public health issues or new policies, making it a crucial step in performance evaluation. While other aspects like compliance, fraud detection, and physician performance assessment are important, identifying trends provides a broader context that encompasses these areas and promotes a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare practice's functioning over time.