Where should enforcement of compliance begin according to best practices?

Enforcement of compliance should begin with standards of conduct and policies and procedures because these foundational elements establish the framework for a healthcare organization’s compliance program. They provide clear guidance on ethical behavior and legal obligations, helping employees understand their roles and responsibilities in maintaining compliance.

Having well-defined standards of conduct and policies enables the organization to lay down the expectations for all employees, fostering a culture of compliance from the outset. These documents also serve as a reference point for training programs and compliance initiatives, ensuring consistency in how compliance issues are addressed across the organization. Moreover, effective enforcement relies on these guidelines to guide decision-making and actions when compliance violations occur, ultimately helping to mitigate risk and promote accountability.

This foundation must be in place before other measures, such as training or involvement from HR, can be truly effective. Without clear standards and policies, training programs may lack direction, and employee buy-in may be challenging. Thus, prioritizing the establishment and reinforcement of standards and policies is crucial for fostering a robust compliance environment.