What is the primary objective of PATH (Physician at Teaching Hospitals) audits?

The primary objective of PATH (Physician at Teaching Hospitals) audits is to assess documentation of physician involvement in resident services. This is crucial because teaching hospitals are required to have verified and documented oversight of residents by attending physicians to ensure proper training and patient care quality. These audits focus on ensuring that the services provided by teaching physicians are adequately documented, reflecting their involvement in patient care and the education of residents. This oversight is essential for compliance with regulations and to secure appropriate reimbursement for services rendered by both the attending doctors and the residents under their supervision.

The other options, while relevant in healthcare operations, do not capture the main goal of PATH audits as effectively. Reviewing patient satisfaction is important but is not the focus of these audits. Evaluating financial records, although necessary for a hospital's fiscal health, is not the primary aim of PATH. Similarly, measuring compliance with HIPAA relates to patient privacy and data protection but falls outside the specific objective of assessing physician involvement in teaching settings.