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The US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General conducted an assessment of background checks for the healthcare industry.

The OIG Assessment

In November 2024 The US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG) released the results of a study they did regarding background checks for healthcare providers. They concluded that it was important for employers to run background checks on people who apply for care positions and to enroll their employees in ongoing monitoring programs. This empowers those organizations to learn if someone loses a license or incurs a criminal record of which they should be aware.

The OIG also announced that states in America spent over $100 million from federal and state funds to “develop or enhance systems to conduct background checks of potential employees of long-term care providers.” In their conclusion, the OIG mentioned they did not have additional recommendations for entities which are already utilizing comprehensive background check packages and ongoing screenings for all current and potential care workers.

Reason For The Study

According to the OIG’s report, this assessment was done because:

• Around 70% of all senior citizens in America will need long-term care at some time in their lives.
• Close to 16% of seniors who receive care have reported some form of abuse.
• There is a National Background Check Program which offers federal assistance to states that are working to build or improve systems “for long-term care settings to conduct background checks on prospective employees.”
• 27 states currently take advantage of that program.

About The OIG

The OIG is a government agency that fights against fraud and abuse and works to help improve the efficiency of Medicare, Medicaid and many other Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) programs.” They carry out their mission by conducting audits, investigations and evaluations.

Each month, the OIG updates an Excluded Individuals/Entities database they maintain. It lists individuals and entities who are not permitted to work in the healthcare industry. Organizations that provide care may reference this information to see if a potential employee is disallowed from providing care.

Healthcare Background Checks

Individuals who apply to work in positions that offer care to vulnerable populations should be thoroughly screened. Backgrounds Online offers a suggested background check package for medical staff for our clients. We can also provide fully customized reports that are perfectly tailored to any position. These reports can include a full suite of criminal searches as well as OIG/SAM Sanctions Searches and FACIS checks.

Regardless of your industry, if your business is bringing on employees, volunteers or contractors, please contact us. Our highly experienced team can help you create screening packages that meet existing laws and regulations. These reports help hiring managers make informed decisions, maintain safe workplaces and conduct due diligence. We ae available to assist you Monday through Friday from 5am to 6pm PT.