Provider orders, electronic, verbal, or paper-based, must be dated and authenticated by the ordering provider or authorized licensed provider. This process ensures that provider orders are valid. Organizations should reduce the use of verbal orders, but there may be circumstances in which this does not align with practice, such as during emergent situations. Our consultants are noting an increase in the incidence of verbal and telephone-based orders that have not been validated within time frames set by the organization. In one instance, the staff had flagged a record of unauthenticated telephone orders that dated back 4 months; the organization had a 72-hour time limit for authentication. Physician leaders should monitor for noncompliance and address provider practice when necessary. Staff should ensure they report concerns through their chain of command. Failure to address order authentication can lead to Payers denying claims that are not substantiated by the service provider’s signature.
Please contact us for questions or more information at 704-573-4535 or info@courtemanche-assocs.com.
Courtemanche & Associates specializes in Healthcare Accreditation and Regulatory Compliance Consulting Services. With over 30 years of being in business and 100+ years of healthcare experience amongst our consulting team, we are ready to assist with your accreditation and regulatory compliance needs.
