Compliance Today (July 2024)
This year’s annual Compliance Institute (CI) provided a strong reminder of just how fortunate we are to have such a strong relationship with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG). Starting at the top with Inspector General Christi Grimm, OIG consistently demonstrates a commitment to supporting the compliance profession through its actions and its words.
No fewer than 15 OIG representatives served as speakers and panelists at HCCA’s 28th CI in Nashville, Tennessee. That’s amazing in itself. So much guidance on critical issues coming directly from OIG is incredibly valuable.
CI got off to a great start with opening remarks from Chief Counsel to the Inspector General Robert DeConti. He promised a unique approach to this year’s remarks, and he delivered a powerful and inspirational message that presented compliance professionals as heroes in the face of the many challenges the profession encounters. What a great way to start a conference!
OIG’s involvement in CI was only just beginning. Speaker after speaker provided great insight into current issues in healthcare compliance. But what impressed me the most was what often transpired after these OIG speakers finished their sessions. Many of them not only patiently responded to questions but made themselves available to attendees during breaks between sessions. They didn’t simply speak and run. I saw several OIG speakers attending other sessions and continuing their discussions with attendees. They wanted to hear what is on the minds of compliance professionals and make themselves available for comments and questions.
Some OIG speakers are now CI veterans, having spoken numerous times, while others are newer. However, across the board, their commitment to being accessible, providing guidance, and listening to comments from the profession was evident.
OIG has a difficult job, and some people will always have a difficult time thinking of OIG as a partner. But at this year’s CI, they really showed that they are a partner and share our common goal of compliance.
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