What is the first step in the monitoring and auditing two-step process?

The initial step in the monitoring and auditing process is conducting a risk assessment. This is vital because it allows an organization to identify and evaluate potential risks that could affect compliance efforts. By understanding these risks, a healthcare organization can prioritize areas that require focused monitoring and auditing, ensuring resources are allocated effectively.

A risk assessment involves analyzing various factors, including regulatory requirements, operational processes, and potential areas of vulnerability. This foundational understanding is crucial for developing targeted compliance strategies and allows organizations to proactively address risks before they result in non-compliance or other issues. Once risks are identified, organizations can move forward to prioritize those risks, which informs subsequent steps in the compliance process, such as implementing specific strategies and involving employees.