ABSTRACT
Introduction Among the most powerful tools for CBR compliance personnel are the written policies and procedures developed as part of a compliance program. These typically cover the coding, billing, and chargemaster areas can also extend to documentation, utilization review, and quality assurance. Developing and writing policies and procedures requires careful craftsmanship. A number of interfaces must be considered within the overall view of the final product. In addition, the rate of change in the CBR area for all healthcare providers is significant. Thus, this intricate process also requires ongoing monitoring and revision. The approval and implementation processes are equally important. Some policies and procedures will be simple and easy to manage; their approval and implementation may be straightforward. At the other end of the spectrum, an attorney may have to consider potential legal ramifications before a policy can be developed and procedures set in motion.
