What process must Focus Cfo franchisees follow to execute a BAA?
Focus_Cfo Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Business Associate Agreements (BAA). In accordance with Focus CFO policy, Franchisees are never authorized to execute a BAA as prepared by the client. Focus CFO has a standard BAA that can be provided to a client, in cases when a BAA is required by the client. Franchisees are authorized to execute a BAA only when prepared through Focus CFO's centralized preparation process only. When a BAA is required with a client, Franchisees are also asked to execute additional documentation for Focus CFO indicating the Franchisee is aware of the requirements of the BAA and will be in ongoing compliance with Focus CFO policies and procedures surrounding clients where a BAA in place.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 37–126)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Focus Cfo Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are never authorized to execute a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) as prepared by the client. Focus Cfo has a standard BAA that can be provided to a client when a BAA is required. Franchisees are authorized to execute a BAA only when it is prepared through Focus Cfo's centralized preparation process.
When a BAA is required with a client, Focus Cfo also requires franchisees to execute additional documentation indicating that the franchisee is aware of the requirements of the BAA and will be in ongoing compliance with Focus Cfo policies and procedures surrounding clients where a BAA is in place. This process ensures that all BAAs adhere to Focus Cfo's standards and policies, mitigating potential risks associated with non-compliance.
This requirement protects Focus Cfo by ensuring that franchisees do not inadvertently agree to terms that could expose the company to liability. It also ensures that franchisees understand their obligations under the BAA and that they will comply with all applicable policies and procedures. This is a common practice in franchising, where franchisors seek to maintain control over key aspects of the business to protect the brand and ensure consistency.