As Biden admin. takes shape, expect closer scrutiny on compliance, HIPAA, billing

Why This Topic Matters

Changes in federal enforcement priorities can influence how providers document care, handle patient information, manage pandemic-related funds, and prepare for audits or investigations. Understanding these broader compliance themes helps organizations assess risk and anticipate areas of closer scrutiny.

Article Sections

1. Accelerating focus on fraud, abuse

   This section discusses expected shifts in federal enforcement priorities related to health care fraud and abuse. It also addresses how agency resources and prosecutorial focus may affect the types of cases pursued.

2. Targeting telehealth

   This section covers anticipated scrutiny of telehealth-related misconduct and broader telemedicine enforcement themes. It distinguishes between overt fraud and other compliance concerns connected to remote-care programs.

3. Honing in on HIPAA

   This section focuses on privacy and security oversight tied to expanded telehealth use. It highlights concerns about safeguarding protected health information in remote-care environments.

4. Auditing provider relief funds

   This section addresses oversight of pandemic-related funding and related public assistance programs. It discusses audit expectations for funds distributed during the public health emergency.

5. Keep an eye on other targets

   This section surveys additional compliance areas that may receive attention, including billing oversight, electronic health record incentive programs, and workplace safety topics. It emphasizes broader audit and enforcement monitoring.

6. Final warning

   This closing section warns that early audit signals and related regulatory contact can precede more serious enforcement activity. It encourages attention to trends across government and non-government review channels.