What must agreements between parties NOT include regarding compensation?

The correct answer highlights the importance of ensuring that compensation agreements between parties adhere to legal and ethical standards in healthcare. Specifically, compensation that exceeds fair market value or varies based on referrals raises significant compliance concerns under applicable laws, such as the Stark Law and the Anti-Kickback Statute. These laws are designed to prevent financial arrangements that could improperly influence medical decision-making, leading to potential conflicts of interest and overutilization of services.

In contrast, agreements can legitimately include compensation based on the length of the relationship, as this is often a standard practice reflecting the value of established partnerships. Moreover, compensation tied to patient satisfaction scores can also be appropriate, as it aligns with the growing emphasis on value-based care. Similarly, compensation that encourages patient care efficiency is in line with industry trends aimed at improving healthcare outcomes while controlling costs. Thus, the focus on compensation models that abide by fair market value and do not incentivize inappropriate referral patterns is crucial for maintaining compliance in healthcare settings.