Should You Give Your Staff a Stark Law Primer?

The phrase “Stark Law” is whispered around medical practices more than it should–and that’s dangerous for your practice. It’s a complex law, and unfortunately for you, it’s probably mentioned without the exceptions and safe harbors that make your ancillary healthcare venture legal.

Thus, when launching a new healthcare venture, consider giving your staff a presentation on Stark Law. Even better, have your attorney give the presentation, as it will give it more authority. (The cost of this presentation will be marginal if you’ve already hired an attorney to ensure Stark Law compliance.) The workshop will serve two purposes:

1. Eliminate chatter in your practice that your new venture is illegal; and
2. Educate your staff to handle questions from patients and other practitioners.

Of course, you probably do not want your staff answering such questions, but wouldn’t you rather have your staff reply “We had a Stark Law workshop” instead of “I don’t know?”