What is the recommended frequency for exclusion verifications according to compliance standards?

The recommended frequency for exclusion verifications aligns with the importance of ensuring that healthcare providers and organizations do not employ or contract with individuals or entities excluded from participation in federally funded healthcare programs. Conducting these verifications monthly is considered best practice because it allows for timely identification of any changes in the status of employees or contractors that may impact compliance.

Monthly checks ensure that any updates to exclusion lists, such as those provided by the Office of Inspector General (OIG), are reviewed promptly, reducing the risk of noncompliance and the potential for penalties. In an environment where the regulatory landscape is continuously evolving, this proactive approach is vital for maintaining compliance and safeguarding against financial and reputational risks.

Adopting a monthly verification process fosters a culture of compliance and minimizes the time frame within which an excluded individual could inadvertently be engaged in a capacity that could lead to violations of federal regulations.