ED Coding & Reimbursement Alert - 2009 Issue 11
COMPLIANCE: OIG Advisory Opinion Process Can Be Long,Arduous -- And Costly
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Article Overview
This compliance article discusses the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG) Advisory Opinion process and what providers should know before requesting one. It covers the general legal implications of submitting an opinion request, the potential handling of unfavorable opinions, the administrative burden and expense involved, expected timing, and the role of prior opinions when evaluating whether to seek guidance. The piece is aimed at healthcare providers, compliance professionals, and legal/coding stakeholders who need a high-level understanding of OIG advisory opinion procedures and related risk management considerations.
Why This Topic Matters
Requests for OIG Advisory Opinions can affect how organizations assess regulatory risk, budget for compliance activities, and plan proposed or existing arrangements. Understanding the process helps readers evaluate whether seeking formal guidance is worth the time, cost, and potential exposure involved.
What You Will Learn
- How the OIG Advisory Opinion process functions at a practical level
- What general legal considerations may arise when submitting an opinion request
- Why the process may involve significant time and expense
- How timing and review steps can affect response expectations
- Why prior advisory opinions may be relevant when evaluating future arrangements
Who Should Read This
- Healthcare compliance professionals
- Healthcare attorneys
- Physician practice administrators
- Hospital compliance staff
- Revenue cycle and regulatory risk professionals
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