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Ownership and Governance
Jackson Hospital is a 100-bed acute care hospital located in Marianna, Florida. The Jackson County Hospital Corporation, a public nonprofit corporation created by special act of the Legislature of the State of Florida in 1939, controls it. A Board of Trustees manages the hospital subject to the terms and conditions of the 1939 Act, as amended, creating the Corporation.
The Board consists of nine appointment trustees. The members of the Board are appointed by the Governor of the State of Florida, and serve for terms of 4 years.
The administrative powers of the Corporation are vested in the Board which shall have charge, control, and management of the property affairs and funds of the Corporation, and which shall have the powers and authority due and perform all acts and functions not inconsistent with the Legislative Act creating the Corporation.
Current Board of Trustees Members:
Gene Strickland – Chair
Kathy Sloan – Vice Chair
Tom Sherrel, MD – Secretary/Treasurer
Pat Furr - Trustee
Pat Williams – Trustee
John Milton – Trustee
Linda Moseley – Trustee
Bill Boyenton – Trustee
Juanita Sanson - Trustee 
JACKSON HOSPITAL
Code Of Conduct
1
Jackson Hospital Code of Conduct
October 2004
Purpose
This Code provides guidance to assist us in carrying out our daily activities while upholding our obligation to comply with the laws and regulations that govern the healthcare industry, as well as Jackson Hospital’s policies and procedures. It governs our relationships with patients, physicians, third-party payors, subcontractors, independent contractors, vendors, consultants, government agencies and one another. This Code is an integral component of the Company's Compliance Program and reflects our commitment to achieve our goals within the framework of the law through a high standard of business ethics and compliance.
This Code of Conduct will address many areas, but is not intended to be the only source of guidance. Some topics may require additional guidance and we will attempt to provide such guidance through a variety of means. Every employee should be aware that he or she has the responsibility to seek guidance and directions whenever he or she is unsure of the propriety of any particular course of action.
Condition of Employment
The policies incorporated into the Code of Conduct are mandatory and must be followed. Failure to comply with any of the provisions of this Code of Conduct will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination for employees and cancellation of contractual or business relationships with physicians, contractors, and agents. Violations of portions of this Code relating to federal healthcare benefit programs may lead to severe consequences including, but not limited to, civil monetary penalties and/or exclusion from federal healthcare benefit programs for employees, physicians, contractors, agents, or CHS. Questions or concerns regarding interpretation of this Code should be addressed to your supervisor or the Compliance Officer.
Patient Care
We are committed to providing high-quality healthcare to all of our patients and delivering health services in an ethical, professional and cost-effective manner. We treat all patients with respect and dignity and provide care that is both necessary and appropriate. We make no distinction in the admission, transfer or discharge of patients or in the care we provide based on race, color, religion or national origin.
· We uphold patient rights to make decisions regarding medical care and other patient rights in accordance with applicable state and Federal laws. We ensure patients’ involvement in all aspects of their care and obtain informed consent for treatment.
· Patients, or their representatives, are provided a clear explanation of their care, including diagnosis, treatment plan, their right to refuse or accept care, care decision dilemmas, estimates of treatment costs, organ donation and procurement and an explanation of the risks and benefits associated with available treatment options.
· Patients have the right to request transfers to other facilities. In such cases, the patient will be given an explanation of the benefits, risks, and alternatives.
· Patients are informed of their right to make advance directives.
· Patients and their representatives will be accorded appropriate confidentiality, privacy, security and protective services, opportunity for resolution of complaints and opportunity for pastoral counseling.
· Patients are treated in a manner that preserves their dignity, autonomy, self-esteem, civil rights and involvement in their own care.
· Jackson Hospital employees will receive training about patient rights.
Emergency Treatment
We will follow the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) in providing emergency medical treatment to all patients, regardless of ability to pay.
· Anyone with an emergency medical condition is evaluated, treated and admitted based on medical necessity.
· In an emergency situation, financial and demographic information will be obtained only after the immediate needs of the patient are met. We do not admit or discharge patients simply on their ability to pay.
· Patients will be transferred to another facility only if their medical needs cannot be met at Jackson Hospital and appropriate care is knowingly available at another facility. Patients may only be transferred after they have been stabilized and are formally accepted by the alternate facility.
Patient Confidentiality
We collect information about the patient’s medical condition, history, medication, and family illnesses to provide the best possible care. We realize the sensitive nature of this information and are committed to maintaining its confidentiality. We do not release or discuss patient-specific information with others unless it is necessary to serve the patient, or required by law, unless the patient has consented to such disclosure.
· We must never disclose confidential information that violates the privacy rights of our patients. No Jackson Hospital employee, affiliated physician or other healthcare personnel has the right to any patient information other than that necessary to perform his or her job.
· Every patient can expect that his or her privacy will be protected and that patient-specific information will be released only to persons authorized by law or by the patient’s written consent. In an emergency situation, when requested by an institution or physician then treating a patient, the patient’s consent is not required, but the name of the institution and the person requesting the information must be verified. This should be done as a call-back process.
Employment Practices and Workplace Conduct
Jackson Hospital values its employees. Our employees provide us a wide complement of talents, which contribute greatly to our success. We strive to create and maintain an environment in which all employees are treated with respect, dignity and fairness, where diversity is valued and opportunities are provided for professional advancement.
Conflicts of Interest
A conflict of interest may occur if outside activities or personal interests influence or appear to influence your ability to make objective decisions in the course of your job responsibilities. A conflict of interest may also exist if the demands of any outside activities hinder or distract you from the performance of your job or cause you to use Jackson Hospital resources for anything other than Jackson Hospital purposes. Employees are obligated to remain free of conflicts of interest in the performance of their Jackson Hospital responsibilities.
Equal Employment Opportunity
We are committed to providing an equal opportunity work environment. We will comply with all laws, regulations and policies related to non-discrimination in all of our personnel actions. Such actions include hiring, staff reductions, transfers, terminations, recruiting, compensation, corrective action, discipline and promotion.
· No one shall discriminate against any individual with a disability with respect to any offer, or term or condition of employment. We will make reasonable accommodations to the known physical and mental limitations of otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities.
Harassment
Each Jackson Hospital employee has the right to work in an environment free of harassment. We will not tolerate harassment by anyone. Degrading or humiliating jokes, slurs, intimidation or other harassing conduct is not acceptable in our workplace.
· Any form of sexual harassment is strictly prohibited. This prohibition includes unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors in conjunction with employment decisions. Moreover, verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that interferes with an individual’s work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment will not be tolerated.
· Employees who observe or experience any form of harassment should report the incident to their supervisor or the Assistant Administrator / Human Resources.
Workplace Violence
Each Jackson Hospital employee also has the right to work in an environment free of violence. We will not tolerate any type of workplace violence.
· Workplace violence includes robbery and other commercial crimes, stalking cases, violence directed at the employer, terrorism and hate crimes committed by current or former employees.
· As part of our commitment to a safe workplace for our employees, we prohibit employees from possessing firearms, other weapons, explosive devices or other dangerous materials at Jackson Hospital.
· Employees who observe or experience any form of violence should report the incident to their supervisor or the Assistant Administrator / Human Resources.
License and Certification Renewals
Persons who are required to maintain professional licenses, certifications, or credentials must maintain these items in a current and up-to-date status while complying with all pertinent Federal, state, or local requirements governing their field of expertise. Jackson Hospital may require proof of current professional licenses, certifications, or credentials. No persons requiring a professional license, certification, or credential will be allowed to perform their job duties or contracted assignments until such time he/she meets this requirement.
· Employees shall advise their supervisor and/or the Human Resources Department if any action is taken which suspends, adversely impacts or limits their license or credentials.
Hiring or Retention of Excluded Individuals or Entities
We will not knowingly hire, retain, employ or contract with any individuals or entities that have been excluded from participation in any government program. Nor will we knowingly conduct business or continue to conduct business with any individuals or entities, whether independent contractor, subcontractors, suppliers or vendors, who have been excluded from participation in any government program.
· An appropriate background search as required by Jackson Hospital policies will be performed for each new Jackson Hospital employee or proposed employee. Retention or contracting of independent contractors, vendors and/or other business associates must also be in accordance with Jackson Hospital policy regarding exclusion from government programs.
· Employees shall advise their supervisor or the Human Resources Department if any action is taken which impacts or limits their eligibility to participate in government programs.
Substance Abuse
To protect the interests of our employees and patients, we are committed to an alcohol and drug-free work environment. All employees must report for work free of the influence of alcohol and illegal drugs. Reporting to work under the influence of any illegal drug or alcohol, having an illegal drug in your system or using, possessing, or selling illegal drugs while on Jackson Hospital work time or property may result in immediate termination. We may use drug testing as a means of enforcing this policy.
Gifts and Fund-Raising among Employees
No employee is compelled to give a gift to another employee, and any gifts offered or received should be appropriate to the circumstances. No employee is compelled to contribute to requests in connection with a fund-raising event.
Controlled Substances
Some employees routinely have access to prescription drugs, controlled substances and other medical supplies. Many of these substances are governed and monitored by specific regulatory organizations and must be administered by physician order only. It is extremely important that these items be handled properly and only by authorized individuals to minimize risks to us and to our patients. If you become aware of the diversion of drugs from the organization, you should report the incident immediately.
Personal Use of Jackson Hospital Resources
It is the responsibility of each Jackson Hospital employee to preserve our organization’s assets including time, materials, supplies, equipment and information. Organizations assets are to be maintained for business-related purposes. As a general rule, the personal use of any Jackson Hospital asset without prior approval of your supervisor is prohibited. The occasional use of items, such as copying facilities or telephones, where the cost to Jackson Hospital is insignificant, is permissible. Any community or charitable use of organizational resources must be approved in advance by your supervisor. Any use of organization resources for personal financial gain unrelated to Jackson Hospital’s business is prohibited.
Health and Safety
Jackson Hospital is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for all colleagues, customers, patients, and visitors. Jackson Hospital is equally committed to minimizing any negative impact upon the environment. Jackson Hospital must comply with all government regulations and rules that promote the protection of workplace health and safety. Jackson Hospital has developed policies to protect employees from potential workplace hazards. You should become familiar with and understand these policies. It is important for you to advise your supervisor of any serious workplace injury or any situation presenting a danger of injury so that timely corrective action may be taken to resolve the issue.
Compliance with Laws and Regulations
Jackson Hospital provides healthcare services to the people of this community and the surrounding communities. These services may be provided only pursuant to appropriate Federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
· We comply with all applicable rules and regulations, policies, and procedures. We conduct business with honesty, fairness and integrity.
· All employees, medical staff members, other healthcare practitioners and contract service providers must be knowledgeable about and ensure compliance with the laws and regulations that are applicable to their professional duties.
· All employees, medical staff members, other healthcare practitioners and contract service providers should immediately report violations or suspected violations to a supervisor or a member of management.
· We do not pursue any business opportunity that requires engagement in any illegal activity or that we believe may be in violation of any law, rule, regulation or Jackson Hospital policy.
· We do not solicit, accept, or give anything of value to employees, physicians or others for referrals of patients.
· We ensure that all drugs and/or other controlled substances used in treatment of patients are maintained, dispensed and transported in conformance with all applicable laws and regulations.
· We ensure all accounting, reimbursement or financial reporting functions are performed accurately and in conformance with all applicable laws and regulations.
· We adhere to sound environmental and safety practices as well as the proper handling of medical or hazardous waste.
· We are familiar with the applicable laws that govern matters pertaining to our respective duties, and we understand that this familiarity is a requirement of our job and a regular part of performance evaluation.
Billing and Coding
We take care to ensure that all billings to government and private insurance payors and patients are true, accurate and conform to applicable Federal and state laws and regulations. We prohibit any employee or agent of Jackson Hospital from knowingly presenting or causing to be presented claims for payment or approval that are false, fictitious or fraudulent.
· We operate oversight systems designed to verify that claims are submitted only for services actually provided and that services are billed as provided. These systems will emphasize the critical nature of complete and accurate documentation of services provided.
· As part of our documentation effort, we strive to maintain current, complete and accurate documentation.
· Any subcontractors engaged to perform billing or coding services must have the necessary skills, quality assurance processes, systems, and appropriate procedures to ensure that all billings for government and commercial insurance programs are accurate and complete.
· If a billing or coding error is detected, immediate notification of your supervisor is mandatory. Any overpayments must be promptly refunded.
· For coding questions, contact the Director of Health Information Management. For questions concerning billing issues, contact the Business Office Director.
Physician Relationships
All business arrangements with physicians must be structured to ensure precise compliance with legal requirements. Such arrangements must be in writing and approved in writing by Jackson Hospital’s legal counsel prior to execution of the contract or performance thereunder. In order to meet all ethical and legal standards regarding referrals and admissions, we will adhere strictly to two primary rules:
· We do not pay for referrals (directly or indirectly). We accept patient referrals and admissions based solely on the patient’s clinical needs and our ability to render the needed services. We do not pay or offer to pay anyone ---- for referral of patients. Violation of this policy may have grave consequences for the organization and the individuals involved, including civil and criminal penalties, and possible exclusion from participation in federally funded healthcare programs.
· We do not accept payments for referrals that we make (directly or indirectly). No Jackson Hospital employee or any other person acting on behalf of the organization is permitted to solicit or receive anything of value, directly or indirectly, in exchange for the referral of patients. Similarly, when making patient referrals to another healthcare provider, we do not take into account the volume or the value of referrals that the provider has made (or may make) to us.
Cost Reports
Our business involves reimbursement under government programs which require the submission of certain reports of our costs of operation. We comply with Federal and state laws relating to all cost reports including submitting accurate cost reports based on adequate documentation that is auditable and verifiable. These laws and regulations define what costs are allowable and outline the appropriate methodologies to claim reimbursement for the cost of services provided to program beneficiaries. Jackson Hospital is committed to preparing and submitting accurate cost reports. Given their complexity, all issues related to the completion and settlement of cost reports must be communicated through or coordinated with Jackson Hospital’s Chief Financial Officer.
Conduct with Respect to Regulatory Agencies
Inquiries and Requests for Information
Jackson Hospital will be forthright in dealing with any billing inquiries. Requests for information will be answered with complete, factual and accurate information. We will cooperate with and be courteous to all government inspectors and provide them with the information to which they are entitled during an inspection.
· During a government inspection, we must never conceal, destroy or alter any documents, lie or make misleading statements to the government representative. We will not attempt to cause another employee to fail to provide accurate information or obstruct, mislead or delay the communication of information or records relating to a possible violation of law.
· In order to ensure that we fully meet all regulatory obligations, Jackson Hospital must be informed about stated areas of potential compliance concern. The Department of Health and Human Services, and particularly its Inspector General, have routinely notified healthcare providers of areas in which these government representatives believe that insufficient attention is being accorded to government regulations. We will be diligent in the face of such guidance about reviewing these elements of our system to ensure their correctness.
· Advise the Compliance Officer and your supervisor of governmental inspections and requests for information.
Accrediting Bodies
We will deal with all accrediting bodies in a direct, open and honest manner. No action should ever be taken in relationships with accrediting bodies that would mislead the accrediting body or its survey teams, either directly or indirectly.
· The scope of matters related to accreditation of various bodies is extremely significant and broader than the scope of this Code of Conduct. Accrediting bodies may be concerned with issues of wide and narrow interests.
Business Information and Information Systems
Each Jackson Hospital employee is responsible for the integrity and accuracy of our organization’s documents and records, not only to comply with regulatory and legal requirements but also to ensure that records are available for our business purposes.
Accuracy, Retention, and Disposal of Documents and Records
Medical and business documents include paper documents such as letters and memos, computer-based information such as e-mail or computer files on disk or tape and any other medium that contains information on any record or document.
· Medical and business documents and records must be retained in accordance with the law and our record retention policy. It is important to retain and destroy records appropriately according to our policy. We must not tamper with records, nor remove or destroy them prior to the specified date.
Confidential Information
Confidential information may be used to perform your job, but it must not be disclosed to others outside of Jackson Hospital or your department unless the individuals have a legitimate need to know this information and have agreed to maintain the confidentiality of the information.
Electronic Media
Jackson Hospital’s communications systems, electronic mail, intranet and Internet access are the property of the organization and are to be primarily used for business purposes.
· Employees may not use internal communication channels to access to the Internet at work to post, store, transmit, download or distribute any threatening; knowingly, recklessly, or maliciously false; or obscene materials including anything constituting or encouraging a criminal offense, giving rise to civil liability, or otherwise violating any laws.
· Employees who abuse our communication systems or use them excessively for non-business purposes may lose these privileges and be subject to disciplinary action, including termination.
Financial Reporting and Records
All financial information must reflect actual transactions and conform to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and associated Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) rules and regulations. All assets and transactions must be properly recorded and disclosed.
· We have established and maintained a high standard of accuracy and completeness in the documentation and reporting of all financial records. These records serve as a basis for managing our business and are important in meeting our obligations to patients, employees, suppliers and others. They are also necessary for compliance with tax and financial reporting requirements.
· Jackson Hospital maintains a system of internal controls to provide reasonable assurances that all transactions are executed in accordance with management’s authorization and are recorded in a proper manner as to maintain accountability to the organization’s assets.
Subcontractors and Suppliers
We will employ the highest ethical standards in business practices with respect to subcontractors, suppliers and vendors in source selection, negotiation, determination of contract awards and the administration of such activities.
We will not knowingly hire, retain, employ or contract with any individuals or entities that have been excluded from participation in any government program. Nor will we knowingly conduct business or continue to conduct business with any individuals or entities, whether independent contractors, subcontractors, suppliers or vendors, who have been excluded from participation in any government program.
Any relationships entered into with such individuals or entities must be conditioned upon their eligibility to participate in government programs. Any determination or finding that an individual or entity is excluded from participation in a government program shall be cause for immediate termination of the business relationship.
Retention of or contracting with independent contractors, vendors and/or other business associates must also be in accordance with Jackson Hospital’s policy regarding exclusion form government programs.
· Our decisions and selections with respect to subcontractors, suppliers and vendors will be made on the basis of appropriate objectives criteria, and not on personal relationships or friendships.
· We will not communicate to a third party confidential information given to us by our suppliers unless directed to in writing to do so by the supplier.
· Gifts and entertainment that might be offered by subcontractors or suppliers must be in accordance with and subject to Jackson Hospital policies.
Marketing Practices
We may use marketing and advertising activities to educate the public, provide information to the community, increase awareness of our services and to recruit employees. We will present only truthful, fully informative and non-deceptive information in these materials and announcements. All marketing materials will be consistent with services available and the level of licensure and certification.
Antitrust
Antitrust laws are designed to create a level playing field in the marketplace and to promote fair competition. Jackson Hospital has committed to compliance with antitrust laws and regulations.
· Antitrust laws could be violated by discussing Jackson Hospital business with a competitor, such as how or the level at which our prices are set, disclosing the terms of supplier relationships, allocating markets among competitors or agreeing with a competitor to refuse to deal with a supplier.
· In general, avoid discussing sensitive topics with competitors or suppliers, unless you are proceeding with the advice of hospital counsel. Also, do not provide any information in response to oral or written inquiry concerning an antitrust matter without first consulting hospital counsel.
Obtaining Information about Competitors
We only obtain information about other organizations, including our competitors, through legal and ethical means such as public documents, public presentations and other published or spoken information.
· We do not obtain proprietary or confidential information about a competitor through illegal means. Nor do we seek proprietary or confidential information when doing so would require anyone to violate a contractual agreement, such as a confidentiality agreement with a prior employee.
Environmental Compliance
We comply with all applicable environmental laws and regulations. We operate each of our facilities with the necessary permits, approvals and controls. We employ the proper procedures with respect to handling and disposal of hazardous and bio-hazardous waste, including medical waste. We immediately alert our supervisor about any situation we become aware of regarding the discharge of a hazardous substance, improper disposal of medical waste or other situation we are aware of which may be damaging to the environment.
Business Courtesies
· Jackson Hospital employees shall comply with all applicable laws, regulations and policies and procedures relating to the extension or receipt of business courtesies.
· Relationships with contractors, vendors and other business partners should be established based solely on the quality of products and services available to Jackson Hospital.
· Cash gifts or tips or cash substitutes in any amount or from any source are strictly prohibited.
Political Activities and Contributions
Jackson Hospital supports employee participation in civic affairs and political activities. These affairs and activities must not create a conflict of interest with Jackson Hospital nor reduce the employee's work performance. Employees must recognize that involvement and participation in political activities is on an individual basis, on their own time, and at their own expense. When employees speak on public issues, they must make it clear to the audience that their comments are their own personal viewpoints.
No employee is authorized to contribute, directly or indirectly, any assets of Jackson Hospital, including the work time of any employee, to any political office holder, party or campaign of any candidate for federal, state, or local office without following the appropriate approval process.
At times, Jackson Hospital may ask employees to make personal contact with government officials or to write letters to present our position on specific issues, but you shall always be free to determine whether or not to do so.
The Corporate Compliance Program
The Corporate Compliance Program is intended to give effect to Jackson Hospital’s commitment to the highest standards of conduct and to compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and Jackson Hospital policies and procedures. The Compliance Program is designed to:
· Prevent, detect and correct violations of the laws and regulations relating to government healthcare programs.
· Quantify and measure the Compliance Program effectiveness (in preventing, detecting and correcting such violations).
· Maintain sufficient documentation to be able to provide government agents with evidence of our compliance activities.
Structure
Jackson Hospital’s Board of Directors, the Compliance Committee and the Compliance Officer all provide oversight for the Compliance Program. All of these individuals or groups are prepared to support you in meeting the standards set forth in this Code.
Reporting Compliance Concerns
Each employee has an individual responsibility for reporting any activity by any employee, physician, subcontractor or vendor that appears to violate applicable laws, rules, regulations, Jackson Hospital policies or this Code. This is not just encouraged, it is expected.
Reporting Options, Guidance and Resources
Several options are available to you to obtain guidance on a compliance issue or to report suspected violations.
Whenever appropriate, bring your concerns to your supervisor first. However, if this is uncomfortable for you, you feel it is inappropriate or you have done so and your concerns still have not been addressed, another option is to discuss the situation with another member of management at your facility, your Human Resources Director or your Compliance Officer. In addition, Jackson Hospital’s policies also provide options, such as the Problem Solving Procedures policy.
Jackson Hospital’s Toll-free Ethics and Compliance Hotline
You are always free to contact the Ethics and Compliance Hotline at 1-800-273-8452, and you may always make such calls anonymously. With respect to reports which are not made anonymously, Jackson Hospital will make all reasonable efforts to maintain, within the limits of the law, the confidentiality of the identity of any individual who reports possible misconduct.
You may also contact Jackson Hospital’s Compliance Officer.
Retribution or Retaliation
Retribution or retaliation against anyone who, in good faith, reports a possible violation is strictly prohibited. Any employee who deliberately makes a false accusation with the purpose of harming or retaliating against another employee will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination of employment.
Investigations
We are committed to investigate all reported concerns promptly and confidentially to the extent reasonably possible. The Compliance Officer will coordinate any findings from the investigations and review and recommend corrective actions or changes that need to be made. All employees are required to cooperate with the investigation efforts.
Corrective Actions
Where an internal investigation substantiates a compliance violation, appropriate corrective action shall be promptly initiated. As appropriate, corrective actions may include prompt restitution of any overpayment amounts, notification of the appropriate governmental agency, institution of disciplinary action, and implementation of system modifications to prevent a similar violation from recurring in the future.
Disciplinary Actions
Anyone determined to have violated the code is subject to disciplinary action. The precise discipline utilized will depend on the nature, severity and frequency of the violation and may result in any of the following disciplinary actions:
Oral warning
Written warning or reprimand
Suspension
Termination
Restitution
Jackson Hospital requires all employees to sign an acknowledgement confirming they have received the Code, that they understand its provisions are mandatory, and that they agree to comply with the Code of Conduct. New employees will be required to sign this acknowledgment as a condition of employment.
Adherence to and support of Jackson Hospital’s Code of Conduct and participation in related activities and training will be considered in decisions regarding hiring, promotion and compensation for all candidates and employees.
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
The following are some important questions and answers regarding compliance at Jackson Hospital:
Q. What is Compliance?
A. Compliance is the term used to describe the hospital’s commitment to adhere to all federal, state and local laws. There are many laws and regulations that govern the way we operate on a daily basis,
Q. What is my role as an employee?
A. As an employee of the hospital, you are responsible for obeying these laws.
Q. What laws and regulations effect our hospital?
A. Healthcare is a very regulated industry. There are many laws and regulations that apply specifically to the way we take care of patients and provide services as a hospital. Listed below is a sample of some of these:
· Employment Laws
· Tax Laws
· State Licensure Laws
· False Claims Act
· Anti Trust Laws
· Hazardous Waste Disposal Regulations
· Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA)
· Safe Medical Device Act (SMDA)
· Medicare Regulations
· Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
· JCAHO
Q. Does Compliance really affect me directly?
A. Yes, probably more than you realize. All employees are required to conduct themselves in an ethical and legal manner. This is not only a requirement for employment at Jackson Hospital, but there are civil and criminal penalties that can be given to people who do not obey these laws and regulations.
Q. So, can I really get in trouble?
A. Yes, employees who willingly and intentionally commit acts which are in violation of the laws can be subject to criminal and civil penalties. In addition, abiding by hospital policies is a requirement for employment. The hospital is also required to enforce the policies and procedures it has in place.
Q. How do I know what I am supposed to do?
A. Following the policies and procedures for your department is the best way. Not only do our policies and procedures help us to know how to do your job, they also provide the guidance we need to abide by rules and regulations. Part of the justification for creating policies and procedures is to assure that we are doing things in accordance with the rules and regulations under which we operate.
Q. What other resources are available to Jackson Hospital employees for addressing Compliance
A. The Compliance Policy for Jackson Hospital is located in the hospital’s Administrative Policy & Procedure Manual. This plan addresses some of the most common issues related to compliance. The Compliance Officer, Risk Manager or Director of Human Resources may be consulted for any questions that you may have regarding compliance.
Q. Who is Jackson Hospital’s Compliance Officer and how do I contact him or her?
A. The Compliance Officer can be reached at 850-718-2644. This is a role which requires authority to make the necessary changes and set the guidelines in order for us to be in compliance with all the rules and regulations under which we operate. These rules can change quickly, which may require us to do things in a different way. The Compliance Officer is authorized to implement policy changes to keep Jackson Hospital in compliance with new rules and regulations.
The function of the Compliance Officer is to coordinate the activities associated with the program and to provide information to the Board, Management and Jackson Hospital employees. The Compliance Officer can be reached at extension 2644 or you may leave a voice message at this extension regarding a compliance issue.
Q. What if I want to anonymously report a compliance issue?
A. Jackson Hospital has established a “Healthcare Values Line” through Pinkerton Company to provide access for employees to voice questions and/or concerns twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Each call will remain confidential and will be investigated thoroughly. You are urged to direct your questions or concerns regarding compliance to the Compliance Officer if at all possible. The toll free number for the “Healthcare Values Line” is posted at all Jackson Hospital time clocks and other key locations in the hospital.
Q. Can I get in trouble for asking questions or voicing concerns about issues I think are not “in compliance”?
A. No. If an employee has a serious concern regarding an activity that they believe is inappropriate, they should report it to the Compliance Officer or through the “Healthcare Values Line”. Even if the matter is found to be “in compliance” after investigation, there can be no retribution for the employee who reported it.
Q. Can I get in trouble if I know about a compliance issue and I fail to report it?
A. Yes. An employee who knows about a serious compliance issue and fails to report it is subject to disciplinary action similar to those who are actually involved in the issue of non-compliance.
Q. How will I know if a regulation or law changes?
A. The Compliance Officer will work with all Jackson Hospital managers to keep all employees informed of new or changing regulations and laws. Update information will also include guidance on how to comply.
Q. How do we know if we are doing things right?
A. Each department has certain laws and regulations which are specific to their area and function. Part of the Department Managers responsibility is to make sure that their department abides by applicable laws, regulations and policies and procedures. Steps must be taken when policies are written and new services developed to maintain compliance with the laws and regulations which govern them.
Q. What are the penalties for violating compliance policies?
A. Violations of compliance policies can result in discipline that may include termination and civil or criminal prosecution. Since it is impractical to itemize every situation which might occur, you should contact the Compliance Officer or Director of Human Resources to address specific concerns.
JACKSON HOSPITAL LEGAL COMPLIANCE PROGRAM GENERAL POLICY STATEMENTIt is the policy of Jackson Hospital to provide services in compliance with all state and federal laws governing its operations, and consistent with the highest standards of business and professional ethics. This policy is a solemn commitment to our patients, to our community, to those government agencies that regulate Jackson Hospital and to ourselves. In order to ensure that Jackson Hospital’s compliance policies are consistently applied, Jackson Hospital has established a legal and regulatory compliance program. The program is directed by a Compliance Committee and a Compliance Officer, who are charged with reviewing our compliance policies and specific compliance situations that may arise.
All Jackson Hospital employees, as well as those professionals who enjoy staff membership, must carry out their duties for Jackson Hospital in accordance with this policy. Any violation of applicable law, or deviation from appropriate ethical standards, will subject an employee or independent professional to disciplinary action, which may include oral or written warning, disciplinary probation, suspension, reduction in salary, demotion, dismissal from employment, or revocation of privileges. These disciplinary actions also may apply to an employee’s supervisor (or a staff member’s department manager) who directs or approves the employee’s improper actions, or is aware of those actions but does not act appropriately to correct them; or who otherwise fails to exercise appropriate supervision.
The Legal Compliance Program includes statements of the hospital’s policy in a number of specific areas. All employees and professional staff members must comply with these policies, which define the scope of Jackson Hospital employment and professional staff membership. Conduct that does not comply with these statements is not authorized by Jackson Hospital, is outside the scope of Jackson Hospital employment and professional staff membership, and may subject employees and professional staff members to disciplinary action. If a question arises as to whether any action complies with Jackson Hospital policies or applicable law, an employee should present that question to that employee’s supervisor, or, if appropriate, directly to the Compliance Officer, or to a member of the Compliance Committee. All employees should review this Legal Compliance Plan from time to time to make sure that these policies guide their actions on behalf of the hospital.
If, at any time, any employee or professional staff member becomes aware of any apparent violation of Jackson Hospital’s policies, he or she must report it to his or her supervisor (in the case of an employee) or to the Compliance Officer. All persons making such reports are assured that such reports are treated as confidential; such reports will be shared only on a bona fide need-to-know basis. Jackson Hospital will take no adverse action against persons making such reports, whether or not the report ultimately proves to be well-founded. If an employee or professional staff member does not report conduct violating the hospital’s policies, that employee or professional staff member my be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or revocation of privileges.
Acknowledgment
My signature on this form acknowledges that I have received and read the Jackson Hospital Code of Conduct.
I agree to comply fully with the standards contained in this book. I understand that compliance with these standards, policies and procedures is a condition of my continued employment or association with Jackson Hospital. I also understand that Jackson Hospital reserves the right to amend and modify the Code of Conduct and that I will be notified of relevant changes.
Name (Please Print): ______________________________________________
Signature: _______________________________________________________
Date: ___________________________________________________________
Department: _____________________________________________________
Please return this page to the Human Resources Department to be placed in your employee record.
Thank you.
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