What should be the primary focus of an organization's compliance program?

The primary focus of an organization's compliance program should be ensuring regulatory compliance. This is fundamental because a compliance program is designed to help the organization adhere to applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards. A focus on regulatory compliance serves to protect the organization from legal risks, fines, and penalties that can arise from violations of laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and various other health care regulations.

When an organization prioritizes compliance, it fosters an ethical culture and promotes accountability throughout its operations. This alignment helps in establishing best practices and ensuring that all staff members are informed about policies and procedures, ultimately leading to a more sustainable operation and better overall governance.

While reducing costs, enhancing patient satisfaction, and increasing revenue are important aspects of running a health care organization, they should be secondary outcomes that arise from a solid compliance foundation. Without a primary focus on complying with regulations, the organization risks facing serious consequences that could undermine its effectiveness and reputation, thus highlighting the critical importance of regulatory adherence as the core of a successful compliance program.