What is the primary focus of utilization review conducted by a Peer Review Organization (PRO)?

• A. Reviews services to determine appropriateness of services delivered for Medicare/Medicaid and some managed care plans
• B. Audits patient satisfaction feedback
• C. Trains therapists in new treatment protocols
• D. Processes insurance billing codes

Answer: (A)

Utilization review by a Peer Review Organization focuses on whether the care provided is medically necessary and appropriate for beneficiaries covered by Medicare/Medicaid and some managed care plans. It uses established criteria to evaluate the necessity, appropriateness, and efficiency of services, with the aim of ensuring high-quality care while avoiding unnecessary or inappropriate use of resources. Reviews can happen before care (prospective), during care (concurrent), or after care (retrospective), often involving clinicians from multiple disciplines to assess the plan, setting, duration, and intensity of services. This process helps align care with evidence-based guidelines and supports sustainable, cost-conscious decision-making.

Not about patient satisfaction audits, therapist training, or processing billing codes.