Which statement best describes the role of audits in the LCPAA's quality-improvement process?

• A. They are optional
• B. They focus only on privacy compliance
• C. They ensure accountability and provide a basis for improvements
• D. They are used to penalize staff

Answer: (C)

Audits in the LCPAA quality-improvement process provide a structured, ongoing review of how services meet standards, with findings that hold programs accountable and point to concrete improvements. They are not optional; they examine more than just privacy—looking at overall compliance, safeguards, and the quality of care and process performance. The goal isn’t to punish staff, but to identify gaps, measure progress, and guide corrective actions that raise service quality over time. For example, an audit might reveal delays in paperwork or gaps in records, leading to process changes and training that prevent recurrence.