Telehealth Compliance
Integrating a system for tracking employee certifications is an important decision for any telehealth organization, particularly those reliant on a remote workforce. With the longer-term trend of these organizations incorporating greater proportions of teleworkers, employing technologies such as an employee certification tracking system is essential for the efficient management of its personnel. Failing to adopt an employee certification tracking system carries a number of risks, which should be considered by the head of finance in the telehealth industry.
First, there is the risk of decreased efficiency associated with an inefficient or outdated human resources (HR) system. By having an employee certification tracking system, it may help HR departments to quickly register the requirements and document the credentialing. This process can involve a great deal of paperwork, such as licensing documents, certifications and other legal certificates. Without a tracking system, it can be burdensome and time-intensive to ensure that all required paperwork is properly documented and stored. Moreover, the process can become even more arduous if the information is stored in multiple records or databases and not in a single repository.
In addition to increased efficiency, there is the risk of missing out on potential cost savings. An employee tracking system can help ensure that companies are aware of which staff have up-to-date certifications, reducing the risk of incurring costs for staff members whose certifications have expired. Furthermore, the system can identify areas where personnel may require additional training to maintain the necessary certifications. Adopting a tracking system will enable the organization to proactively plan for such necessary investment, rather than having to respond to it after the fact when the certifications have already expired.
In addition to the risk of lost efficiency and potential cost savings, failing to incorporate an employee certification tracking system carries with it the potential for other risks. An outdated or inadequately maintained tracking system can leave an organization legally vulnerable. By failing to retain records of employee certifications and qualifications, an organization may be unable to demonstrate that its personnel are sufficiently trained and qualified to meet regulatory and compliance standards. This can have significant legal and financial implications. Furthermore, the lack of an employee certification tracking system carries with it the risk of exposing an organization to the added complexity of manually verifying employee credentials or undergoing significant and costly audits.
Overall, it is imperative for the head of finance in the telehealth industry to consider the various implications of failing to adopt an employee certification tracking system. The system will prove to be an essential tool for increased efficiency, cost savings and compliance with the relevant regulations and standards. Furthermore, the system provides considerable potential for reducing the risk of legal and financial exposure.
