How often should a healthcare facility conduct a risk assessment?

Conducting a risk assessment annually, or as needed based on changes in operations, is the best practice in healthcare management. This approach ensures that the facility continually identifies and evaluates potential risks that could impact patient safety, compliance, and overall operations. By assessing risks at least once a year, the facility can stay ahead of emerging threats and adapt to changes in regulations, technology, or patient demographics that may affect the risk landscape.

Healthcare organizations operate in a dynamic environment, with continuous advancements in medical technology, changes in healthcare policies, and evolving patient needs. An annual assessment allows for a systematic review of current protocols, procedures, and safety measures. Additionally, performing risk assessments when there are significant changes in operations—such as introducing new services, acquiring new technology, or adapting to shifts in healthcare regulations—ensures that the facility remains compliant and minimizes exposure to liability.

This practice also promotes a culture of safety and risk management within the organization by fostering an ongoing awareness of potential hazards and enabling the implementation of timely interventions. Emphasizing an annual and conditional approach helps to create a responsive framework that can effectively adapt to new information and circumstances within the healthcare environment.