What is the first step a Compliance Officer should take when developing goals for a review?

The first step a Compliance Officer should take when developing goals for a review is to take a "snapshot" to develop a baseline to assess the current state of compliance. Establishing a baseline is crucial because it provides a clear understanding of where the organization currently stands in terms of compliance. This snapshot allows the Compliance Officer to identify existing gaps, weaknesses, or areas that need improvement, which are essential for setting realistic and pertinent goals.

By evaluating the current state, the Compliance Officer can prioritize areas that require immediate attention and tailor the review goals to specifically address these needs. This foundational step ensures that subsequent audits, reviews, or compliance activities are informed by accurate data, helping to monitor progress effectively over time.

In contrast, conducting a probe audit on claims, contemporaneous review, or a concurrent audit are important assessments in their own rights but are typically initiated after establishing a baseline. They serve different purposes, such as verifying specific claims or checking compliance during ongoing operations, but they do not effectively establish the initial framework needed for successful goal development in compliance reviews.