Compliance Considerations For Navigating Physician Financial Relationships

In this episode of Compliance Conversations, host CJ Wolf sits down with healthcare legal expert Hal McCard to dive deep into the intricate world of physician financial relationships. Hal, with over 25 years of experience in healthcare law, shares invaluable insights and practical advice that are essential for anyone involved in healthcare management and compliance. 

Hal McCard, counsel with Spencer Fane, has a storied career that includes roles such as General Counsel of Quorum Health Corporation and Deputy General Counsel of Community Health Systems. His extensive experience provides a rich backdrop for the discussion, making this episode a treasure trove of knowledge for compliance officers and legal professionals. 

One of the focal points of the conversation is the STARK and Anti-Kickback statutes. Hal breaks down these complex regulations, explaining the nuances that can often trip up healthcare organizations. He highlights the importance of understanding these laws, as non-compliance can lead to significant legal and financial repercussions. 

A key takeaway from the episode is the importance of a centralized arrangements tracking system. Hal emphasizes that whether you are a small organization or a large health system, having a robust system for tracking financial relationships is crucial. This helps in ensuring compliance with fair market value documentation, auditing processes, and monitoring the various dimensions of these relationships. 

Hal also touches on the role of open payments and conflict of interest monitoring. He advises leveraging publicly available data to avoid potential conflicts and ensure transparency in physician relationships. This proactive approach not only helps in maintaining compliance but also protects the organization's reputation. 

For compliance officers, Hal's advice is clear: have a systematic approach to risk assessment and ensure that processes are well-documented and auditable. By doing so, healthcare organizations can navigate the complexities of physician financial relationships and stay on the right side of the law. 

Don't miss this enlightening episode—tune in now to equip yourself with the knowledge to master compliance in physician financial relationships. 

You can also check out the webinar Hal co-hosted with Brian Burton, Healthicity’s Chief Compliance and Privacy Officer, on the separation of legal and compliance.