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The Strategic Advantage of Compliance in Healthcare: Expert Insights from Ericka Adler

In this episode of the Compliance Advantage podcast, host Ross Ronan discusses the importance of investing in compliance programs with special guest Ericka Adler, a seasoned regulatory and transactional healthcare lawyer.

They explore the conception of compliance as a revenue driver rather than a cost center, backed by significant statistics from the DOJ's 2023 recoveries. Both stress the benefits of an effective compliance program, from fostering trust with patients to preventing costly fines and legal issues.

Ericka shares her extensive experience advising healthcare providers, detailing common compliance misconceptions and the strategic advantages of a well-structured compliance program in transactions. She also highlights the importance of leadership in fostering a compliance culture and offers practical advice on creating meaningful involvement across all levels of an organization.

The episode concludes with a discussion on personal wellness for professionals in the demanding field of healthcare law and compliance.

00:00 Introduction and Listener Question
00:37 The Value of Compliance Programs
01:08 Statistics and Costs of Non-Compliance
03:02 Benefits of Compliance Programs
05:17 Interview with Ericka Adler Begins
09:02 Misconceptions About Compliance
18:08 The Role of Compliance Officers
29:06 Fostering a Culture of Compliance
36:44 Maintaining Personal Well-being
37:56 Conclusion and Closing Remarks

Today's Guest:

Ericka Adler
Ericka has over 25 years representing individual providers, physician groups, and other health care entities. She focuses her practice on regulatory and transactional health care law, compliance counseling, structuring, and implementing complex joint ventures to comply with state and federal laws and regulations. Ericka also spends a significant amount of time helping physicians to negotiate their employment agreements with various types of physician employers. She handles mergers, sales and acquisitions of healthcare entities and has extensive experience in completing transactions with private equity, hospitals and other third parties. Ericka also has deep experience dealing with Stark, Anti-Kickback Statute, fee-splitting concerns, the corporate practice of medicine, and other challenges facing healthcare providers.

Follow Ericka on Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/ericka-adler-87a2a93

Connect with Ross

• LinkedIn: Ross Ronan
• Podcast Show Page: The Compliance Advantage
• Ross' Company: Ronan Healthcare Compliance

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In this episode of the Compliance Advantage podcast, host Ross Ronan and producer Kami Reyna delve into the essentials of federal health care programs and the importance of compliance in healthcare organizations.

The discussion includes a breakdown of major federal health care programs like Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, and TRICARE, emphasizing the critical need for regular audits and adherence to compliance guidelines. Ross shares real-world case studies, including significant settlements involving healthcare providers and insurers, to illustrate the financial and reputational risks of non-compliance.

The episode underscores the strategic value of a robust compliance program, highlighting that every dollar invested in compliance can save significantly in penalties and lost revenue.

They also stress the necessity of fostering a culture of compliance within organizations, backed by data from authoritative sources like the DOJ and Harvard Business Review. Finally, Ross challenges listeners to assess and improve their compliance programs to turn compliance from a cost center into a strategic asset.


01:01 Understanding Federal Healthcare Programs
03:25 Importance of Compliance Programs
05:14 Case Studies and Real-World Examples
07:48 The Compliance Advantage
09:15 Misconceptions About Compliance
14:04 Compliance as a Strategic Asset
15:17 Building a Culture of Compliance
24:57 Leadership's Role in Compliance
30:03 Final Thoughts and Challenge for CEO's and Board Members

Connect with Ross

• LinkedIn: Ross Ronan
• Podcast Show Page: The Compliance Advantage
• Ross' Company: Ronan Healthcare Compliance

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Shifting Accountability in Healthcare Compliance: Insights from Christina Peterson

In this episode of the Compliance Advantage Podcast, Ross hosts Christina Peterson, compliance executive at Ronan Healthcare Consultants, to discuss crucial aspects of healthcare compliance.

They delve into misconceptions about compliance roles, emphasizing accountability at the executive level and the evolution of regulatory frameworks like the Park Doctrine and the Yates Memo.

The conversation explores how compliance should be viewed as a partnership rather than policing, and the effectiveness of involving compliance officers in high-level discussions to ensure transparent, ethical practices.

Christina also highlights her method of balancing rigorous regulatory standards with fostering an ethical business environment, ultimately aiming for a proactive, rather than reactive, compliance culture.

The episode concludes with personal reflections on maintaining work-life balance and the importance of self-care for compliance professionals.

00:22 Biggest Misconceptions in Healthcare Compliance
04:27 Changing Perceptions of Compliance
07:28 Aha Moments in Compliance
09:34 Compliance as a Superhero
15:46 Fostering a Culture of Compliance
18:06 Self-Care for Compliance Executives
19:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with Ross

• LinkedIn: Ross Ronan
• Podcast Show Page: The Compliance Advantage
• Ross' Company: Ronan Healthcare Compliance

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Transforming Compliance into a Strategic Advantage with Ross Ronan

In this episode of The Compliance Advantage Podcast, host Ross Ronan, founder of Ronan Healthcare Compliance, addresses a listener's question on handling employees identified on the OIG or GSA exclusion lists.

He emphasizes the necessity of an operational and effective compliance program and outlines steps for immediate action, including involving HR and legal departments.

Ross also discusses common misconceptions about compliance, its importance for healthcare leaders, and how a compliance program can serve as a strategic partner rather than just a regulatory requirement.

The episode concludes with insights into Ross's personal health and wellness practices and the importance of goal setting for personal growth and high performance.

Join Ross and podcast producer Kami Reyna as they kick off Season 3 with valuable insights into leveraging compliance for business innovation and success.

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
00:41 Welcome to The Compliance Advantage Podcast
01:14 Listener Question: Handling Employees on the Exclusion List
01:56 Steps to Address Exclusion List Issues
05:53 Case Study: Exclusion List Scenario
07:52 Season 3 Kickoff and Rebranding
08:30 Interview with Ross Ronan
09:42 Misconceptions About Compliance
12:47 Compliance as a Strategic Partner
14:46 Compliance as a Superhero
16:25 The Importance of a Robust Compliance Program
20:47 Advice for CEOs and Board Members
23:09 Health and Wellness for Leaders
25:26 Conclusion and Season Preview


Ross Ronan’s Bio
Ross R. Ronan, JD, BSN, CPCO, CHC, CCEP, CMPE, is the founder of Ronan Healthcare Compliance, the host of the top 10% globally ranked “The Compliance Advantage” podcast, a seasoned board member, and a healthcare compliance strategist with nearly 30 years of industry experience.

He has supported hundreds of healthcare industry leaders from companies like Envision Healthcare, Amulet Capital Partners, and Enhanced Healthcare Partners while engaging with entities, including McDermott Will & Emery (MWE) and the U.S. Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), to promote ethical leadership and ensure operational integrity.

Ross is a sought-after speaker at prestigious forums, like the University of Pennsylvania's law program, the Health Care Compliance Association (HCCA), the American Health Law Association (AHLA), and private equity conferences such as MWE’s HPE Miami, where he addresses the critical intersection of compliance and business strategy.

With degrees in nursing and law and memberships in organizations like the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and the Healthcare Private Equity Roundtable, he is widely regarded by private equity partners, board members, CEOs, general counsels, and compliance officers. Ross can help any at-risk stakeholder gain confidence in navigating the complexities of healthcare compliance.

Connect with Ross

• LinkedIn: Ross Ronan
• Podcast Show Page: The Compliance Advantage
• Ross' Company: Ronan Healthcare Compliance

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Balancing Leadership, Compliance, and Growth:
Insights from Jim Fuhrman, a Healthcare Veteran

In this episode of the Compliance Leadership Lounge, host Ross Ronan chats with Jim, an experienced executive in the dental benefits and healthcare industry.

They discuss the crucial role of compliance in business, the importance of discipline and planning, and strategies for effective leadership. Jim shares his career journey, from starting in dental benefits to leading major healthcare organizations, and emphasizes the value of listening, acknowledging others, and maintaining integrity.

They also touch on the concept of work-life harmony and the importance of personal hobbies and family time for maintaining high performance. This conversation offers valuable lessons for anyone in leadership or compliance roles.


00:42 Welcome and Guest Introduction
02:01 Jim's Career Journey in Dental Benefits
04:59 Leadership Insights and Favorite Books
08:19 Aligning Strategies with Execution
15:25 Compliance in Healthcare Delivery
30:14 Work-Life Harmony and Personal Well-being
34:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

We highly encourage our listeners to connect with our guests:

Jim Fuhrman
An accomplished executive with a proven track record in driving business transformations, a specialist in strategic execution within the ancillary insurance sector and multi-site provider service organizations, particularly in dental care. Leading UnitedHealthcare Dental and founding PrimeCare Benefits Group, this leader combines ordinary intellect with remarkable instincts and integrity. He is focused on community service and youth development though sport, while splitting time between Henderson, NV and North Shore Oahu.

LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-fuhrman-b9b7a65/

Connect with Ross

• LinkedIn: Ross Ronan
• Podcast Show Page: The Compliance Advantage
• Ross' Company: Ronan Healthcare Compliance

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In this episode of the Compliance Leadership Lounge, Ross Ronan welcomes Christina, the newest member of Ronan Healthcare Compliance.

Christina shares her journey from a registered nurse to a healthcare leader and compliance professional, emphasizing the importance of leadership in effecting positive change for both patients and teams.

The conversation delves into the complexities of compliance, the significance of the OIG's 2023 General Compliance Program Guidance (GCPG), and the evolving landscape of value-based care.

Discussions cover the integration of compliance, quality, and risk management, and the critical role of effective communication in leadership.

Christina also shares personal anecdotes about balancing professional responsibilities with personal well-being.

00:07 Christina's Journey into Healthcare Leadership

01:23 Transition to Compliance

03:35 Leadership Insights and Favorite Books

05:26 Discussion on General Compliance Program Guidance (GCPG)

09:28 OIG's Interpretation of Accountability

10:16 Leadership and Governance in Compliance

18:27 Risk Assessments and Auditing

23:30 Value-Based Reimbursement and Compliance

27:38 Combining Compliance, Quality, and Risk Management

34:43 Conclusion and Personal Insights

We highly encourage our listeners to connect with our guests:

Christina Peterson
Christina Peterson, MBA, BSN, CHC, CCEP, serves as Compliance Executive, leading the execution of Compliance Officer responsibilities. With a mission to fortify ethical standards and foster a culture of integrity, Christina develops tailored compliance programs that align with clients' strategic goals while ensuring regulatory excellence. Her leadership emphasizes ethical decision-making, transparent operations, and accountability, helping organizations integrate compliance seamlessly into their operations and thrive in the complex healthcare landscape.

LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-peterson-878b6557/

Connect with Ross

• LinkedIn: Ross Ronan
• Podcast Show Page: The Compliance Advantage
• Ross' Company: Ronan Healthcare Compliance

Send us a text

Unlocking Compliance Leadership: Insights from M&A and Healthcare Experts

In this episode of the Compliance Leadership Lounge, host Ross Ronan speaks with Carl, a seasoned professional in healthcare M&A and legal compliance.

Listeners will learn:
The importance of mentorship, strategies for successfully navigating M&A processes, the significance of compliance in healthcare, and how to communicate complex legal and compliance issues effectively to executives.

Carl shares his personal journey, tips on reinventing skill sets, and insights into aligning compliance with business goals.

Special segments include discussions on the role of compliance in mergers, the value of historical perspectives in leadership, and actionable advice for compliance and healthcare leaders.

00:00 Introduction to the Compliance Leadership Lounge
00:03 The Importance of Mentorship in M&A
01:15 Welcome and Guest Introduction
02:28 Carl's Career Journey in Healthcare M&A
03:17 Challenges and Rewards in M&A
05:02 Leadership and Mentorship Insights
13:45 The Role of Compliance in M&A
17:17 Ronan Healthcare Compliance Sponsorship
18:12 Final Thoughts on Compliance and Leadership
34:32 Conclusion and Farewell

We highly encourage our listeners to connect with our guests:
Carl Berglind
Carl Berglind is a Shareholder with Greenberg Traurig’s Health Care & FDA group, based in Denver, Colorado. He focuses his practice on M&A and other strategic transactions in the health care industry, across a broad range of subsectors, representing both sellers and investors.

Carl started his career as a associate with large international law firms in New York and Denver before transitioning first to in-house positions in health care, and later to non-legal executive and corporate development roles for several years, before returning to law firm practice.

Carl grew up internationally, and speaks fluent Swedish and conversationally fluent French and Danish.

LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlberglind

Connect with Ross

• LinkedIn: Ross Ronan
• Podcast Show Page: The Compliance Advantage
• Ross' Company: Ronan Healthcare Compliance

Send us a text

A Leader's Guide to Empowering and Collaborating with your Compliance Officer

In this episode of the Compliance Leadership Lounge, Guest host Kami Reyna, Producer for the show interviews Ross Ronan as they explore the vital relationship between healthcare leaders and compliance officers.

Listeners will learn the importance of integrity, effective communication, and empowerment in fostering strong compliance leadership.

Key takeaways include:
- The significance of transparency and regular meetings between leadership and compliance officers.
- Identifying essential qualities and red flags when hiring compliance officers, along with practical interview tips.
- Strategies for empowering compliance officers through open communication, personal development, and inclusion in strategic planning.
- Best practices for building trust and providing adequate resources to compliance teams.

The discussion underscores the necessity of a symbiotic relationship between leadership and compliance executives to proactively address regulatory challenges and support organizational success.

01:30 The Importance of Leader-Compliance Officer Relationships

03:32 Effective Communication Strategies

05:43 Empowering Compliance Officers

07:22 Red Flags When Hiring Compliance Officers

12:10 Interview Questions for Compliance Officers

15:36 Effective Interview Techniques for Compliance Officers

16:06 Sponsor Message: Ronan Healthcare Compliance

17:02 Empowering Your Compliance Officer

21:32 Common Pitfalls in Compliance Leadership

24:31 Building Strong Relationships with Compliance Officers

27:30 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

Connect with Ross

• LinkedIn: Ross Ronan
• Podcast Show Page: The Compliance Advantage
• Ross' Company: Ronan Healthcare Compliance