LAS VEGAS, June 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Nevada announced today that its utilization management entity, Anthem Utilization Management Services, Inc. (AUMSI) has been awarded a full, three-year Health Utilization Management Accreditation from URAC, a Washington, DC-based health care accrediting organization that establishes quality standards for the health care industry. URAC's accreditation standards require companies to establish a process to assess, plan and implement utilization management interventions.
"Anthem is honored to have received Health Utilization Management accreditation from URAC," said Mike Murphy, President of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Nevada. "We are very pleased to be recognized in the industry for providing outstanding services. Such a distinction also underscores the quality of our work with customers, members, clients, payors, and providers by demonstrating compliance with national standards for utilization management services."
"By applying for and receiving URAC accreditation, Anthem has demonstrated a commitment to quality health care," said Alan P. Spielman, URAC president and CEO. "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 and undergo rigorous evaluation by an independent accrediting body."
URAC's Health Utilization Management Accreditation standards establish consistency in utilization management processes. The standards helps ensure that appropriately trained clinical personnel conduct and oversee the utilization review process, that a reasonable and timely appeals process is in place, and that medical decisions are based on a valid clinical criteria.
URAC, an independent, nonprofit organization, 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 http://www.urac.org/.
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