1/24/2012
OIG Posts Tips for Implementing an Effective Compliance Program
Yesterday the Office of Inspector General (OIG) added a video to its HEAT training website. The newest video outlines the OIG’s tips for implementing an effective compliance program. The six tips include:
- Foster a culture of compliance: Support your compliance program with sufficient resources. A financial commitment to compliance will show the OIG that your organization values integrity.
- Functional policies and procedures: C... (Read More)
1/13/2012
HHS Finds “Unreasonable” Rate Hikes Using ACA Rate Review Authority
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced yesterday that premium increases proposed by an insurer in five states were “unreasonable” and “excessive.” HHS has authority under the Affordable Care Act to review premium increases over 10% to determine if such increases are reasonable. If HHS determines that a premium increase is unreasonable, the insurance company must post a justification on its website within 10 days.
The rate increase at issue in yesterday’s announcement is a 13%... (Read More)
1/10/2012
Providing Health Services Under TRICARE No Longer Creates Affirmative Action Requirements for Health Care Employers
On December 31, 2011, President Obama signed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012. A conference report in this Act ends OFCCP’s push to expand its jurisdiction by way of TRICARE contracts. The new Section 715 of the conference report states that TRICARE managed care support contracts will not be considered contracts to provide health care services such that these providers become subject to OFCCP jurisdiction.
TRICARE is the Department of Defense health care program for active duty and retired military and their famili... (Read More)