What is the primary function of Utilization Review (UR) in healthcare?

Utilization Review (UR) primarily focuses on evaluating the appropriateness of the services provided to patients within the healthcare system. Its main goal is to ensure that patients receive the necessary care while minimizing unnecessary procedures and hospitalizations. By focusing on reducing unnecessary admissions and managing the length of stay, UR helps healthcare facilities control costs while maintaining quality patient care.

In this context, UR analyzes various aspects such as the necessity of services, efficiency of the patient's treatment plan, and adherence to established protocols. This not only optimizes resource utilization but also enhances patient outcomes by ensuring that patients are only admitted or kept in a facility when it is medically justified. By actively managing these factors, UR plays a crucial role in improving the overall efficiency of the healthcare delivery system.

Other options relate to specific clinical tasks or functions that do not align with the overarching objective of UR, which is focused on oversight and management of healthcare services rather than direct patient treatment or diagnostics.