Utilization management strategies: where to start?

Abstract

The purpose of a utilization or test management program is to identify for the clinician the most frequently ordered and useful laboratory tests relevant to the diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and management of the patient. As such, a test management program must be carefully constructed to provide appropriate and effective utilization of laboratory services by incorporating and promoting the highest quality and best practice standards for patient care.1 At the same time, a test management program must not hinder the clinician's ability to properly care for the patient by ordering the right test at the right time for the right reason. Too often, utilization strategies solely focus on cost reduction without regard for clinical impact.