Utilization Review

 

The evaluation process used by healthcare organizations to assess the necessity, appropriateness, and efficiency of medical services and treatments.

 

Preauthorization:

The approval process required before certain medical services or treatments are provided, ensuring they meet the criteria set by the healthcare insurer or organization.

 

Medical Necessity:

The determination that a specific healthcare service or treatment is essential for the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of a medical condition, as determined by medical professionals.

 

Peer Review:

The evaluation of medical services by qualified healthcare professionals, often peers of the treating physician, to ensure adherence to medical standards and guidelines.

 

Length of Stay (LOS):

The duration a patient spends in a healthcare facility, subject to review to ensure it aligns with the medical necessity and standards of care.

 

Overutilization:

The excessive use of healthcare services or treatments beyond what is deemed medically necessary, leading to increased costs and potential negative impacts on patient outcomes.

 

Underutilization:

The situation where necessary healthcare services are not used optimally, often due to barriers such as lack of access, awareness, or appropriate referral.

 

Denial of Service:

The rejection of coverage or payment for a specific healthcare service or treatment, often based on the findings of a utilization review.

 

Case Management:

The coordination and management of a patient’s healthcare services, often involving a designated case manager who ensures the provision of necessary and appropriate care.

 

Concurrent Review:

The assessment of healthcare services and treatments in real-time as they are being provided to ensure ongoing medical necessity and appropriateness.