What is the primary goal of a compliance program in healthcare?

The primary goal of a compliance program in healthcare is to discover, prevent, and correct illegal and unethical actions. This focus is essential because healthcare organizations operate under strict regulations and laws that govern their practices. A compliance program aims to ensure that the organization adheres to these laws, ethical standards, and internal policies, thereby safeguarding both the patients and the institution itself.

By actively promoting compliance, the program establishes a framework to identify potential problems before they escalate into serious ethical or legal violations. It also provides mechanisms for reporting, investigating, and addressing any misconduct. This proactive approach not only protects patients' rights and well-being but also maintains the integrity and reputation of the healthcare institution within the community.

While improving patient satisfaction, enhancing employee engagement, and reducing costs are important aspects of healthcare delivery, they are secondary to the foundational purpose of compliance. Ensuring that the organization operates within legal and ethical parameters is critical; without this foundation, other objectives could be jeopardized by legal repercussions or loss of trust from patients and the public.