CORPORATE COMPLIANCE:
The Corporate Compliance Program has been established to prevent the occurrence of illegal or unethical behavior, to stop any such behavior as soon as reasonably possible after it has been discover, to discipline the individual(s) involved (including those who know of violations but fail to report them), and to recommend and implement changes in policy and procedure necessary to avoid a recurrence of any prior violation.
CODE OF CONDUCT
Hiawatha HomeCare is committed to conducting business in an ethical and honest manner and within the bounds of the law. This Code of Conduct is intended to provide employees, subcontractors, volunteers and other agents with guidelines for conducting business in a manner which fulfills that commitment. The Code of Conduct is supplementary to the mission, vision and values of Hiawatha HomeCare and applies to all who provide services under the auspices of Hiawatha HomeCare.
The standards contained in this Code of Conduct are important, and therefore any violation will be handled in accordance with the Discipline Policy, as outlined in the Employee Handbook. In addition, referral of certain matters will be made to government and regulatory agencies as appropriate. The offender may also be responsible in a civil suit for losses or other damages caused by his or her inappropriate conduct.
The Corporate Compliance Program
The Corporate Compliance Program has been established to prevent the occurrence of illegal or unethical behavior, to stop any such behavior as soon as reasonably possible after it has been discovered, to discipline the individuals involved (including those who know of violations but fail to report them), and to recommend and implement changes in policy and procedure necessary to avoid a recurrence of any prior violation.
Questions and How to Report Violations of the Standards
It is important that employees have an effective way to get an answer to any question they may have about how to conduct their job. It is also important for employees and other agents to report any instance of a known or suspected violation of this Code of Conduct.
In the event that an employee has a question or concern or believes that someone is conducting their business in an illegal, unethical, or otherwise questionable manner, or violating Hiawatha HomeCare’s policies, it is preferred that the employee first contact his or her supervisor to discuss the matter. There are times, however, when either the response the employee receives may be inadequate or the employee may feel uncomfortable in discussing the matter with his or her supervisor. In those cases, the employee should contact the Corporate Compliance Officer or access the helpline at www.hiawathahomecare.com. All reports are confidential and the reporter may remain anonymous. Reporters will not be retaliated against in any manner as long as the information being reported is truthful.
Hiawatha HomeCare’s Commitment to Compliance
Hiawatha HomeCare strives to…
Follow All Laws. Hiawatha HomeCare is subject to numerous local, state and federal laws pertaining to all aspects of its operation. All employees are required to abide by those laws which are applicable to the performance of their jobs.
Provide Quality Client Care. Agency employees shall strive to treat all clients with a spirit of kindness, patience and understanding. Each client should be respected, with their needs and desires considered as health care decisions are made. Steps shall be taken so that each client understands his or her treatment needs and options. Each client will be given a notice of the Home Care Bill of Rights upon admission for services. We will not discriminate against any person because of age, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, or for any other reason prohibited by applicable state and Federal law. At all times, competent and qualified individuals will provide appropriate care, while considering the safety and well being of the client.
Protect Confidential Information. Hiawatha HomeCare is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of client, personnel, and other proprietary information in accordance with HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules and all other applicable legal and ethical standards.
Adhere to Fraud and Abuse Legislation. All employees are required to comply with laws which prohibit health care fraud and abuse. Activities that are prohibited include, but are not limited to, intentionally or knowingly making false or fraudulent claims for payment or approval.
Offering or receiving remuneration (such as a kickback, bribe, or rebate) as an inducement to make a referral for the furnishing of service.
Submitting false information for the purpose of gaining or retaining the right to participate in a plan or obtain reimbursement for services.
Not Accept Gifts or Gratuities. Employees are prohibited from soliciting or accepting gratuities, gifts, money, loans or any other item of value from any client, family member or vendor. Gifts that are exempt from income tax ($25.00 or less) may be accepted under appropriate circumstances gratuities or gifts from clients or vendors.
Giving gifts to clients and vendors: Employees shall not offer or give money, services or other items of value, with the expectation of influencing the judgment or decision making process of the recipient.
Avoid Conflicts of Interest. No employee shall engage in activities that are contrary to agency interests or inconsistent with responsibilities entrusted to the employee.
Keep Accurate and Complete Records. It is essential that we report accurate information to governmental entities and other third parties. Employees must accurately report the relevant facts of a transaction. All client records must meet documentation standards required for quality care and to meet reimbursement regulations.
Provide a Safe Workplace. It is our policy to comply with all applicable state and federal laws designed to improve workplace safety. We are committed to training employees to carry out their duties in a safe manner.
Not Tolerate Harassment or Discrimination. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, familial status, disability, genetic information, status with regard to public assistance, local human rights commission activity, or any other legally protected classification. We will take affirmative action to ensure that all business activities are free of discrimination.
Protect Access to Information Systems. We are committed to protecting all aspects of our information systems in accordance with the HIPAA Privacy and Security Rule. All employees and other associates with access to our computerized information system shall abide by our Computer Usage policy, including the protection of confidential passwords and other access information.