How do you build a positive relationship with risk management auditors and regulators?

1 Understand their role and expectations

The first step to building a positive relationship with risk management auditors and regulators is to understand their role and expectations. They are not there to find fault or punish you, but to help you identify and mitigate risks, improve performance, and meet standards. Therefore, you should familiarize yourself with their objectives, criteria, methods, and timelines, and ask questions if you are unclear or unsure. By showing respect and interest in their work, you can establish rapport and trust.

2 Prepare and organize your documentation

The second step to building a positive relationship with risk management auditors and regulators is to prepare and organize your documentation. They will need to review and verify various records, policies, procedures, and data related to your healthcare operations and outcomes. Therefore, you should ensure that your documentation is accurate, complete, consistent, and accessible, and that you have a designated person or team to handle their requests. By being proactive and cooperative, you can demonstrate your professionalism and accountability.

3 Communicate and listen effectively

The third step to building a positive relationship with risk management auditors and regulators is to communicate and listen effectively. They will need to interview and observe you and your staff, as well as provide feedback and recommendations. Therefore, you should be honest, transparent, and courteous in your interactions, and avoid being defensive or argumentative. You should also listen carefully to their questions, concerns, and suggestions, and acknowledge their perspectives and expertise. By being open and respectful, you can foster dialogue and understanding.

4 Collaborate and implement changes

The fourth step to building a positive relationship with risk management auditors and regulators is to collaborate and implement changes. They will expect you to follow up on their findings and recommendations, and to report on your progress and outcomes. Therefore, you should involve them in developing and executing action plans, and seek their input and support when needed. You should also monitor and evaluate the impact of the changes, and share your results and feedback with them. By being responsive and adaptive, you can show your commitment and improvement.

5 Learn and improve continuously

The fifth step to building a positive relationship with risk management auditors and regulators is to learn and improve continuously. They are not only evaluators, but also educators and partners in your healthcare quality improvement journey. Therefore, you should view them as a valuable source of information, guidance, and best practices, and leverage their insights and experiences to enhance your own skills and knowledge. You should also seek opportunities to network and collaborate with them on future projects and initiatives. By being curious and humble, you can cultivate a culture of learning and excellence.

6 Appreciate and recognize their contributions

The sixth step to building a positive relationship with risk management auditors and regulators is to appreciate and recognize their contributions. They are not only doing their job, but also helping you do yours better. Therefore, you should express your gratitude and appreciation for their time, effort, and expertise, and acknowledge their positive impact on your healthcare organization and patients. You should also provide constructive and respectful feedback on their performance and process, and suggest ways to improve their service and satisfaction. By being grateful and supportive, you can strengthen your relationship and reputation.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?