Creating a safe and healthy work environment is a top priority for any organization. Employers have a responsibility to protect their employees and customers from potential health risks and ensure that individuals entrusted with patient care are qualified and fit for the job. One essential tool in achieving this goal is health sanction checks. In this blog, we will explore the significance of health sanction checks and their role in maintaining a secure workplace.
What are Health Sanction Checks?
Health sanction checks, also known as healthcare sanction checks or healthcare exclusion checks, are a thorough screening process that evaluates an individual’s background for any history of disciplinary actions, sanctions, or exclusions from participation in federal or state healthcare programs. These checks help identify individuals who may pose a risk to the safety and well-being of patients, clients, or residents in healthcare facilities, and they are a crucial component of ensuring a safe workplace.
The Role of Health Sanction Checks in a Secure Workplace
Protecting Patients and Vulnerable Populations:
Health sanction checks are particularly vital in healthcare settings, where patient safety is paramount. They help prevent individuals with a history of medical malpractice or unethical behavior from working in positions where they could potentially harm patients or vulnerable populations. This not only safeguards the well-being of patients but also upholds the reputation of healthcare facilities.
Ensuring Compliance with Regulatory Requirements:
Healthcare organizations are subject to various regulations, including the Social Security Act and the Affordable Care Act. Compliance with these regulations is non-negotiable, and failing to conduct health sanction checks can result in significant legal and financial consequences. To maintain a secure work environment, healthcare providers must adhere to these regulatory requirements.
Minimizing Legal and Financial Risks:
Negligent hiring in the healthcare sector can lead to lawsuits, regulatory fines, and damage to an organization’s reputation. Health sanction checks play a crucial role in minimizing these risks by helping employers make informed decisions about potential hires.
Fostering Trust and Confidence:
Patients and their families need to trust the healthcare professionals who provide their care. Knowing that healthcare organizations conduct thorough health sanction checks instills confidence in the quality of care and safety provided. It reassures patients and their loved ones that the institution prioritizes their well-being.
Preventing Fraud and Abuse:
In addition to protecting patients, health sanction checks also help prevent fraud and abuse within healthcare programs. Individuals excluded from participation in government-funded healthcare programs due to fraudulent activities or misconduct can be identified through these checks, contributing to the integrity of the healthcare system.
The Process of Health Sanction Checks
The process of health sanction checks typically involves searching federal and state databases, such as the List of Excluded Individuals and Entities (LEIE) and the System for Award Management (SAM). Employers or healthcare organizations can conduct these checks during the hiring process, and they should also perform ongoing checks to ensure that employees remain in good standing.
Health sanction checks are an essential part of maintaining a safe and secure work environment, particularly in healthcare settings. By identifying individuals with a history of disciplinary actions or exclusions from healthcare programs, employers can protect patients, comply with regulatory requirements, minimize legal and financial risks, and foster trust and confidence among their stakeholders. These checks are not just a legal obligation; they are a crucial step toward ensuring that healthcare facilities and organizations prioritize the well-being of those they serve
Posted by Morgan Mower
Morgan is the Co-Founder and CRO of Western Verify, and spends his free time hanging with his family or making a Sunday dinner brisket.