Checklist for Evaluating Compliance Consultants
Check credentials, qualifications, experience, cost, references & responsiveness to RFP.
The OIG and DOJ stress that compliance programs are always works in progress that must evolve and respond to the ever-changing legal, regulatory, and business environment. One difficulty in successfully running a compliance program is not having the appropriate staffing to venture into other areas warranting attention. Most organizations will find it necessary from time to time to acquire the services of a compliance expert consultant to provide advice and guidance in assessing and advancing the Compliance Program. Choosing the right firm is a challenge. Before you launch an in-depth search for a quality management consultant, ensure you fully understand your organization’s needs and goals. For example, for financial audits, one should use a Public Accounting Firm. For legal analysis and opinion, use a Law Firm. For compliance regulatory reviews and advisory services, one should use a Compliance Consulting Firm. With a multitude of compliance consultant vendors in the marketplace, it is important to narrow down the list to select the most competent healthcare regulatory compliance consultants. The following is a checklist that may help in making the right decision:
- Expertise. Does the firm possess relevant expertise and knowledge? Check for journal articles, blogs, and presentations consultants have made and the credentials they possess.
- Healthcare Compliance Experience. Has the firm focused on healthcare sector compliance, and are they generalized across other industries (e.g., financial, energy, environment, etc.)?
- Compliance Knowledge. Do the available consultants evidence the needed experience and knowledge regarding the work to be performed?
- Responsiveness. How quickly and completely did the firm respond with a proposal (prompt responses to emails, calls, and messages can indicate how they will perform their work)?
- Availability. How soon would the consultants be available to begin work?
- Experience. How many years of experience do the firm and its consultants possess (indicators of reliability and stability)?
- Depth and Breadth. What is the depth of the firm’s capabilities with who will lead the engagement, along with others with varied credentials in support?
- Cost. What would the contractors charge for services (fixed or hourly fee)? Note, that the contractor bears the cost for any overhead (FICA, leave and health benefits, etc.).
- Reference. Does the contractor have references for the quality of previous client services?
- Interview Proposed Consultant. Are you able to interview the consultant for the proposed work to ensure there is good working chemistry?
- Independence and Objectivity. Will the firm attest to following the GAO Generally Accepted Government Audit Standards for operational reviews and assessments?
- Accessibility. Will the firm be available for immediate service and response to ongoing needs?
- Credentials. What is the range of the consulting firm’s credentials relevant to current needs (e.g., JD, PhD, CPA, CPC, CCEP, CHC, CHPC, CHPS, MBA, PMP, HIM, RN, COC, CCNA, CDIP, etc.)?
- Professional indemnity insurance. Does the firm possess multimillion-dollar professional liability insurance for the services being offered?
- Quality Management. Will the firm certify results follow generally accepted review and consulting guidelines, and if so, who would sign it?
