Legal and Compliance Mistakes Anesthesiology Practices Should Avoid
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Dec 23, 2025
- 2 min read
Anesthesiology practices face unique legal and compliance challenges due to high-risk procedures, controlled substance prescribing, and strict hospital and payer regulations. Mistakes in these areas can lead to audits, fines, or malpractice claims. Understanding common pitfalls and implementing best practices is critical to protect your practice and maintain patient trust.
1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Licensing and Credentialing
Common Mistake:
Operating with expired or incomplete medical licenses
Failing to credential providers with hospitals, ASCs, or payers
Avoidance Strategy:
Regularly verify state licenses and DEA registrations
Maintain updated credentialing documentation for all providers
Read More: DEA Registration Requirements
2. HIPAA and Patient Privacy Violations
Common Mistake:
Sharing patient information insecurely via email or unencrypted messaging
Inadequate training of staff on HIPAA regulations
Avoidance Strategy:
Use HIPAA-compliant EHR and communication platforms
Conduct annual HIPAA training and audits for all staff
Find Out: HIPAA Security and Privacy Guidelines
3. Billing and Coding Errors
Common Mistake:
Using incorrect CPT or ASA codes
Missing documentation to support anesthesia time or procedure complexity
Avoidance Strategy:
Implement regular audits and staff training on coding updates
Use integrated EHR and billing software to minimize errors
4. Non-Compliance with Controlled Substance Regulations
Common Mistake:
Improper recordkeeping for medications
Failing to follow state or federal telehealth prescribing rules
Avoidance Strategy:
Maintain DEA logs and secure medication storage
Follow telehealth prescribing regulations for controlled substances
5. Employment and Staffing Compliance Issues
Common Mistake:
Misclassifying staff as independent contractors instead of employees
Not providing required workplace training or adhering to labor laws
Avoidance Strategy:
Understand employment classification rules and labor laws
Document training, HR policies, and employee agreements
6. Ignoring Risk Management and Insurance Needs
Common Mistake:
Operating without adequate liability coverage
Not including property insurance for office equipment and assets
Avoidance Strategy:
Maintain comprehensive insurance, including:
Professional Liability / Malpractice Insurance: Covers clinical errors
General Liability Insurance: Protects against non-medical incidents
Property Insurance: Covers office equipment, monitors, and medical assets
Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Mandatory for employees
Final Thoughts
Anesthesiology practices operate in a high-risk, highly regulated environment. Avoiding common legal and compliance mistakes—like licensing lapses, HIPAA violations, coding errors, and insufficient insurance—is crucial for reducing liability, maintaining credibility, and ensuring sustainable operations. Establishing proactive compliance programs and regular audits will safeguard both patients and your practice.
Contact us today.
