(Newswire.net — June 27, 2017) — A ZPIC audit can be an intimidating and downright terrifying process for healthcare providers. It’s fair to say that the day to day operation of any healthcare facility is complicated enough as it is, without the additional stress and chaos that this audit can cause. But it can be avoided.
There are a few simple steps to undertake in order to avoid ZPIC audits, as discussed below.
Fill Out the Right Documents
Your main responsibility is to make sure you have the right documentation both prior to and during a ZPIC audit. If they can’t find the documents then they will assume you’re not complying, which doesn’t allow you to get off to a good start.
Coding instructions and all communication with coders should be kept and documented. These are the two main areas of focus, but all other documents should be kept in check and presented when required.
Self-Audit
One of the best ways to prevent an audit of any kind is to make sure you self-audit yourself. You know what you are looking for and how to find it. You know what they will be looking for and what they will use against you. By taking this pre-emptive action you are helping to keep everything in check while also presenting your intentions in a good light.
It might not save you from a ZPIC audit, but at the very least it will make it look like you tried to do the right thing.
Keep Track
Once an audit begins, you need to keep track of it every step of the way. Keep a report of everything that is happening and be as detailed as you can. This will ensure that the auditor is accountable for everything that happens and it will also allow you to make sure you meet the demands of the auditor at every step.
Educate Your Employees
Mistakes happen, but they can be avoided by ensuring that your employees are kept up to date with all coding changes. So, maintain an educational program to ensure they get the information they need and that all changes are understood and acknowledged when they occur. They need to be able to follow a set of instructions and those instructions need to adapt to the changing rules and regulations
Blame Game
Finally, it’s important to remember that if something is not your fault, then you don’t have to take the blame. If you have subcontracted work, as many coders do, then put the blame where it belongs. By all means, shoulder the burden of blame if you are at fault, but don’t be willing to accept it on someone else’s behalf.