Compliance Deconstructed is back and, in this episode, Jessica Zeff, Elvan Baker, and Lorie Davis dive into why budgeting is essential for building a strong, sustainable compliance program. They challenge the common misconception that compliance is a low-cost, back-office function and outline why underfunding it puts organizations at risk.

Throughout this episode you will gain insight into the true nature of compliance work, from developing policies to managing investigations and why these tasks require specialized resources. Compliance is not a “plug-and-play” role, but a complex, thought-driven function that operates across the entire organization.

The discussion also highlights real-world examples of how compliance teams protect organizations from reputational and financial harm. From handling data breaches to ensuring regulatory reporting, the episode showcases why budgeting must consider both predictable and unexpected needs.

This episode unpacks the 2025 Medicare Final Rule and how it raises the bar for compliance expectations across the healthcare industry. Organizations must align their budgets with updated compliance obligations, including expanded risk assessments, reporting requirements, and the need for continuous professional development—essential elements for staying ahead in a dynamic regulatory landscape.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Compliance is a strategic function that requires dedicated resources, not an afterthought or cost center.
• Underfunding compliance can result in missed violations, regulatory penalties, and reputational damage.
• Effective budgeting includes preparing for the unpredictable, such as investigations and regulatory changes.
• Compliance work spans multiple departments and stakeholders, making cross-functional coordination critical.
• The 2025 Medicare Final Rule reinforces the need for comprehensive risk assessments and updated compliance plans.
• Building a compliance budget should be data-driven, scenario-based, and aligned with both risk and strategic goals.

Learn more about Healthcare Compliance and discover how Simply Compliance can help your company at simplycomplianceconsulting.com.