APS Healthcare Receives URAC Health Utilization Management Accreditation.SILVER SPRING, Md. -- APS Healthcare, one of the country's leading specialty healthcare companies, announced today that it has been awarded Health Utilization Management Utilization management is the evaluation of the appropriateness, medical need and efficiency of health care services procedures and facilities according to established criteria or guidelines and under the provisions of an applicable health benefits plan. Accreditation from URAC URAC Utilization Review Accreditation Commission (health care accreditation & certification) URAC University Recreation & Aquatic Centre Ltd (Australia) URAC Union Regional de Apoyo Campesino , a Washington, D.C.-based health care accrediting organization that establishes quality standards for the health care industry. The accreditation applies to APS' Maryland behavioral health Behavioral health was first used in the 1980's to name the combination of the fields mental health and substance abuse. As an example, an organization serving both mental health and substance abuse clients might refer to its practice as behavioral health or operations. "We are excited to be recognized by URAC," said Eileen Auen, APS' CEO (1) (Chief Executive Officer) The highest individual in command of an organization. Typically the president of the company, the CEO reports to the Chairman of the Board. . "This accomplishment demonstrates APS' commitment to provide its customers and members with programs and services that rate among the highest standards in the industry." The URAC Health Utilization Management standards establish consistency in UM processes. The standards ensure that only appropriately trained, qualified clinical personnel conduct and oversee the utilization review u·til·i·za·tion review n. A process for monitoring the use, delivery, and cost-effectiveness of services, especially those provided by medical professionals. process, that a reasonable and timely appeals process is in place, and that medical decisions are based on valid clinical criteria. "By applying for and receiving Health Utilization Management accreditation, APS Healthcare has demonstrated a commitment to quality health care," said Charles Stellar, URAC board chair. "Quality health care is crucial to our nation's welfare and it is important to have organizations that are willing to measure themselves against national standards." About URAC URAC, an independent, nonprofit organization Nonprofit Organization An association that is given tax-free status. Donations to a non-profit organization are often tax deductible as well. Notes: Examples of non-profit organizations are charities, hospitals and schools. , is a leader in promoting health care quality through accreditation and certification programs. URAC's standards keep pace with the rapid changes in the health care system, and provide a mark of distinction for health care organizations to demonstrate their commitment to quality and accountability. Through its broad-based governance structure and an inclusive standards development process, URAC ensures that all stakeholders are represented in setting meaningful standards for the health care industry. For more information, visit www.urac.org. About APS APS Healthcare, headquartered in Silver Spring, Md., is a leading provider of specialty healthcare solutions that cover more than 20 million members in the United States United States, officially United States of America, republic (2005 est. pop. 295,734,000), 3,539,227 sq mi (9,166,598 sq km), North America. The United States is the world's third largest country in population and the fourth largest country in area. and Puerto Rico Puerto Rico (pwār`tō rē`kō), island (2005 est. pop. 3,917,000), 3,508 sq mi (9,086 sq km), West Indies, c.1,000 mi (1,610 km) SE of Miami, Fla. . APS offers customized, integrated healthcare solutions across three major healthcare product lines - health management services, behavioral health services, and quality improvement programs. APS operates under the belief that managing healthcare for the mind and body improves overall health and reduces total healthcare spending. |
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