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As the world continues to grapple with the effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare organizations are under tremendous pressure to comply with local and federal regulations. Healthcare risks are already complex, but during this time of rapid change, these risks have become even more difficult to manage. In order to remain compliant and protect patients in an ever-changing environment, healthcare organizations need to stay updated to be able to identify the latest healthcare compliance risk management issues, so that they can manage them effectively.Â
- The Need for FlexibilityÂ
The key to successful risk management during a pandemic is flexibility. With regulatory guidelines changing on an almost weekly basis, healthcare organizations must remain agile so they can quickly adjust their practices as needed. This means having clear communication channels between staff and leadership, as well as having established processes for communicating changes in policies or procedures.Â
- Ensuring Adequate ResourcesÂ
To properly manage risk in a pandemic, it’s important that healthcare organizations have adequate resources available. This can include access to specialized expertise, such as professional connections who have access to the best and most cost-efficient medical equipment suppliers. It also means having sufficient staffing levels so that employees can focus on managing risks without being overburdened by other tasks. Additionally, organizations need to ensure that staff members are adequately trained on relevant topics such as infection control and other relevant practices.
- Staying Ahead of the CurveÂ
It is vital to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to managing risks associated with the pandemic. This means proactively monitoring changes in regulations and responding quickly when new guidelines are issued. It also means staying abreast of relevant news stories related to the pandemic so that any potential risks can be identified early on and addressed appropriately. Additionally, having strong partnerships with industry experts can help ensure that an organization remains up-to-date on all relevant developments regarding healthcare compliance risk management during this period. Â
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- Adapting to Telemedicine and Online Consultations
One of the most significant ways that the pandemic has impacted healthcare compliance risk management is the increased use of telehealth. Telehealth is the use of technology to deliver healthcare services remotely. Prior to the pandemic, telehealth was used primarily for rural patients who had difficulty accessing in-person care. However, the pandemic has led to a significant increase in the use of telehealth as patients have been reluctant to visit doctor’s offices and hospitals. This has led to a need for new compliance risks, such as ensuring that patient data is properly secured and that regulations are being followed.
- The Increased Use of Personal Protective Equipment
Another way that the pandemic has impacted the healthcare industry is the increased use of personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE includes items such as masks, gloves, and gowns that are worn to protect healthcare workers from exposure to infectious diseases. The increased use of PPE has led to a need for new compliance risks, such as ensuring that PPE is properly disposed of and that healthcare workers are properly trained on how to use it.
- Changes in Infection Control Protocols
The pandemic has also led to changes in infection control. It is the practice of preventing or reducing the spread of infections. The pandemic has led to new compliance risks, such as ensuring that healthcare workers are properly trained on heightened infection control practices and that all patients are following recommended health and safety protocols.
- Changes in Prescribing Practices
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a marked increase in the use of telehealth services, including teleconsultation prescribing. This allows clinicians to prescribe medication to patients without an in-person visit. While it has many benefits, there are also some risks that should be considered. One of the main risks is the potential for miscommunication. Without being able to see the patient in person, it may be more difficult to accurately assess their condition and determine the best course of treatment. Despite these risks, teleconsultation prescribing can be a safe and effective way to provide care during the pandemic. When used appropriately, it can help to ensure that patients receive timely and accurate care.
The past few years have resulted in a significant amount of change for healthcare organizations, and compliance risk management is no exception. These changes include an increased focus on telehealth, new regulations regarding infection control, and more. As we move forward into 2023 and beyond, it is critical that compliance risk managers continue to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of their organizations. Has yours made any changes to your compliance risk management strategy in light of the pandemic? With proper planning and appropriate action steps taken now, organizations will be able put themselves in a better position for long-term success down the line.