As the year comes to a close, I embarked on a research journey to identify the critical compliance steps organizations in healthcare should take. Surprisingly, I discovered a lack of concise, actionable guidance. This realization highlighted a major gap—despite the plethora of regulations healthcare entities must adhere to, few experts simplify the process into clear steps. With that in mind, here are the key compliance issues you should address before the end of the year.
The SRA is the cornerstone of your HIPAA compliance program. Astonishingly, some covered entities and business associates still claim it doesn’t apply to them. Let’s clarify: if you create, store, or transfer Protected Health Information (PHI), you are required to conduct an SRA.
Not only is the SRA legally mandated, but it also helps identify vulnerabilities in your systems and provides a roadmap to safeguard sensitive patient data. Neglecting this essential task is not just a compliance risk—it’s a liability for your organization. If you haven’t already conducted an SRA, make it a top priority before the year ends.
Taino Compliance Inc. specializes in helping organizations complete their SRAs with precision and efficiency. Our experts ensure your SRA meets all regulatory requirements while providing actionable recommendations.
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Address SAFER Guards
If you’re a Medicare provider, SAFER (Safety Assurance Factors for EHR Resilience) Guards are non-negotiable. These federally mandated protocols aim to enhance the safety and efficiency of electronic health records. Requirements may vary depending on the type of entity, but ensuring compliance is critical.
Be warned: attesting to SAFER Guard implementation or SRA completion without actually doing the work constitutes fraud. Take the time to fully implement these measures and document your efforts.
New this year, BOI reporting requirements apply to certain businesses. BOI involves disclosing information about the individuals who own or control a company. While not every entity is required to file, those that are must comply by the established deadlines. Failing to meet BOI requirements can result in penalties, so verify whether this applies to your organization and take action accordingly.
Every employer is required to maintain an I-9 Form for each employee to verify identity and employment authorization. With the Department of Homeland Security increasing fines for missing or incomplete I-9 Forms, now is the time to audit your files. Ensure all forms are properly completed and stored to avoid costly penalties.
Changes to the Federal 1099 Law regarding employee misclassification could impact your organization. Misclassifying workers as independent contractors instead of employees can result in significant fines and tax implications. Review your workforce classifications and consult with legal or HR experts to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
Planning for 2025: Start the Year Right
Once you’ve tackled the end-of-year compliance tasks, it’s time to look ahead. Proper planning for 2025 can save you headaches down the line. Here are some proactive steps to consider:
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Review Policies and Procedures
Take a close look at your organization’s policies and procedures. Are they up-to-date with current regulations? Do they align with best practices? Regular reviews ensure your policies remain effective and compliant.
EPI Compliance simplifies this process by providing up-to-date policies and tracking tasks to ensure compliance. Their platform also delivers essential training for all employees, creating a culture of accountability and preparedness.
Conduct comprehensive training sessions for all employees, focusing on areas like HIPAA compliance, cybersecurity, and workplace safety. Well-trained staff are your first line of defense against regulatory violations and operational risks.
- Contingency Plans for Cybercrime
Cyberattacks are on the rise, and healthcare organizations are prime targets. Develop and test contingency plans to address potential cyber incidents, ensuring you can maintain operations and protect sensitive data in the event of a breach.
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Preparing for Medicare Price Reductions
With Medicare reductions on the horizon, organizations must adapt to changing reimbursement rates. Analyze how these changes might affect your revenue and develop strategies to mitigate financial impacts, such as optimizing operational efficiency or diversifying income streams.
A Final Thought: Play Chess, Not Checkers
As my son often reminds me, success requires strategic thinking. Compliance is no exception. It’s not just about addressing immediate concerns but planning for future challenges. By taking these steps now, you’ll not only ensure compliance but position your organization for long-term success. Don’t wait—start checking these items off your list today!