Compliance: The RACs Slide Into Summer with a Hefty Junket of Audit Issues

Why This Topic Matters

It helps practices quickly assess whether their services may fall within current audit focus areas and understand the importance of organized records and timely responses when a RAC review occurs.

Article Sections

1. Review

   A summary of the audit issues currently being reviewed by RAC contractors in multiple regions. The section highlights broad service categories and the Medicare settings involved.

2. Do Your Homework

   General guidance on how to approach a RAC notice, gather records, and respond to an audit request. It also discusses documentation review and the possible involvement of legal counsel.

3. Respond with evidence

   Discussion of using supporting documentation and research when responding to audit correspondence. The section emphasizes preparation and the possibility of avoiding a more burdensome review process.

4. Legal advice

   A brief explanation of why legal guidance may be useful when navigating audit-related materials and formal review standards.

5. Silver lining

   A closing discussion of the potential operational benefits of an audit, including identifying internal process issues and improving future compliance efforts.