Compliance Corner
Free Training from Vendors – Can I Accept It?

Deciding whether to accept free training from a vendor, an appealing notion in today’s cost conscious environment presents compliance issues that require careful consideration. 

If the training is needed so that we can properly utilize new services, products or equipment, it is entirely appropriate for the vendor to provide training at no additional cost to us. But if the training covers topics not directly related to the vendor’s product line and is given with the intention (no matter how subtle) of giving “an edge” to that vendor in future business dealings, it is not appropriate to accept the training without charge. 

When deciding whether to accept a vendor’s offer of “free training,” it is critical to determine whether the training is intended to reward the hospital for business conducted in the past or to induce business in the future. If so, the offer must be declined.

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