UR Responsibilities
Clinical Tools & Assessment
Symptoms & Diagnoses
Treatment & Recovery
Codes & Systems
100

What is the primary responsibility of a Utilization Review Specialist?

Advocating for clients by securing authorizations

100

What does COWS stand for?

Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale

100

A ritual used to reduce anxiety.

Compulsion

100

What free program supports recovery for family members?

12-Step Programs

100

What does the yellow color on the UR Kanban indicate?

A case needing immediate focus

200

Which method is used for securing treatment approval before services begin?

Precertification

200

What does CIWA stand for?

Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol

200

A mental process causing disconnection from thoughts or identity.

Dissociation

200

At what stage does a person recognize the need for change but not act?

Contemplation

200

What color on the UR Kanban indicates action is needed?

Tiffany Blue

300

Why is effective communication with facilities important for U.R. Specialists?

To avoid delays in authorizations

300

What does a score of 5–12 on the COWS indicate?

Mild withdrawal symptoms

300

What type of hallucination involves hearing voices?

Auditory hallucination

300

What’s a common challenge in the maintenance stage of recovery?

Relapsing due to cravings

300

What HCPC code corresponds to Residential Treatment (RTC)?

H0017

400

How often should U.R. Specialists follow up on outstanding cases?

At least once a week

400

What is the purpose of the Mental Status Examination (MSE)?

To assess a patient’s psychological functioning

400

What does the diagnosis F10.20 refer to?

Alcohol use disorder, severe

400

Why is family therapy recommended in residential treatment?

To support family in understanding the recovery process.

400

What HCPC code is used for Mental Health Intensive Outpatient?

S9480

500

What method can be used if a client is discharged before authorization is obtained?

Retrospective Review

500

Which domain of the MSE includes grooming and appearance?

Appearance

500

What condition is associated with impaired insight?

Psychosis

500

What is the main difference between ambulatory and inpatient detox?

Ambulatory detox is provided on an outpatient basis for those with complicated withdrawal symptoms

500

What REV code is used for Mental Health Partial Hospitalization?

0912