Internal Auditor - Hospital

Job Purpose:

The Internal Auditor is responsible for providing independent and objective evaluations of the hospital’s financial operations, risk management, internal controls, and governance processes. The role ensures compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, hospital policies, and industry standards, while safeguarding hospital assets and enhancing operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Internal Audits:

·      Plan and conduct internal audits across departments, including finance, procurement, billing, claims, and patient services.

·      Evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls and risk management processes.

·      Audit financial statements, operational processes, and asset management for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with established procedures.

2. Risk Assessment and Management:

·      Identify areas of financial and operational risk within the hospital.

·      Provide recommendations to management on risk mitigation strategies.

·      Monitor the implementation of corrective actions and risk management plans.

3. Compliance Reviews:

·      Ensure compliance with Kenyan laws, regulatory requirements, and healthcare standards, including NHIF (National Hospital Insurance Fund) and other insurance schemes.

·      Review adherence to hospital policies, accounting standards, and ethical practices.

4. Audit Reporting:

·      Prepare detailed audit reports highlighting findings, risks, and recommendations.

·      Present reports to senior management, the Audit Committee, and other stakeholders.

·      Provide regular updates on audit activities and significant issues to the Chief Finance Officer or Audit Committee.

5. Financial Oversight:

·      Evaluate the hospital’s financial performance, including revenue management, budgeting, cash flow, and expenditure control.

·      Conduct audits of revenue streams, including outpatient, inpatient, pharmacy, laboratory, theatre, and diagnostic services.

·      Audit insurance claims processes to ensure accuracy and timely submissions.

6. Asset and Inventory Management:

·      Conduct audits of hospital assets, including medical equipment, vehicles, and real estate, to ensure proper safeguarding and utilization.

·      Monitor inventory control systems for pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and other consumables to prevent fraud or misuse.

7. Fraud Detection and Prevention:

·      Identify potential fraud, waste, or abuse in hospital operations.

·      Investigate irregularities or suspicious activities, including billing discrepancies, procurement irregularities, and payroll issues.

·      Recommend and implement fraud prevention controls.

8. Process Improvement:

·      Collaborate with management to improve operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

·      Provide recommendations to optimize resource utilization, reduce wastage, and streamline hospital processes.

·      Develop and revise internal policies and procedures to enhance control and accountability.

9. Staff Training and Capacity Building:

·      Educate staff on internal controls, compliance requirements, and fraud prevention measures.

·      Support the development and implementation of a strong internal control culture across the hospital.

Key Skills and Competencies:

• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze complex financial and operational data to identify inefficiencies, risks, and improvement opportunities.

• Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and thoroughness in evaluating financial records and operational procedures.

• Ethics and Integrity: Commitment to ethical practices, transparency, and confidentiality in all audit functions.

• Problem-Solving Skills: Strong critical thinking and the ability to offer practical solutions to audit findings.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear reporting and presenting findings.

• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in accounting software, auditing tools, and hospital management systems.

Qualifications:

• Education:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.

  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA-K) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) qualification is required.

  • Additional certification in risk management, healthcare finance, or forensic auditing is an added advantage.

• Experience:

  • Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in internal auditing, preferably in the healthcare or hospital sector.

  • Knowledge of Kenyan healthcare regulations, including NHIF billing and claims processes, is an added advantage.

• Knowledge:

  • Familiarity with international accounting standards, tax regulations, and healthcare finance in Kenya.

  • Understanding of hospital operations, risk management, and the regulatory environment.