According to OIG compliance program guidance, what is the primary focus of a physician practice?

The primary focus of a physician practice, as outlined by the Office of Inspector General (OIG) compliance program guidance, is patient care. This emphasis underscores the fundamental mission of healthcare providers, which is to deliver high-quality care to patients. Compliance programs are designed to support and enhance the quality of care by ensuring that practices are operating ethically and according to regulations. When patient care is prioritized, it also fosters a culture of compliance, as satisfying patient needs often involves adhering to legal and ethical standards.

While cost reduction, revenue generation, and compliance regulations are certainly important aspects of running a healthcare practice, they should not overshadow the primary goal of providing effective and compassionate patient care. A practice that centers around patients is more likely to maintain compliance and optimize its operations without compromising ethical standards or the quality of services provided. Therefore, patient care remains the cornerstone that guides a physician practice's operations and compliance efforts.