TMF Health Quality Institute Earns URAC Accreditation
Company Receives Health Utilization Management and Independent Review Organization Accreditations
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Greg Walker
512-334-1710
gwalker@txqio.sdps.org
1-800-725-9216
Emilie Fennell
(512) 334-1649
efennell@txqio.sdps.org
1-800-725-9216
Austin, Texas – June 24, 2008 – TMF Health Quality Institute, a leading nonprofit health care consulting company, announced today that it has been awarded Health Utilization Management and Independent Review Organization Accreditations from URAC, a Washington, DC-based health care accrediting organization that establishes quality standards for the health care industry. As a URAC-accredited organization, TMF joins a select group nationwide that meet rigorous standards for quality and accountability.
“We are very proud to earn these accreditations,” said Tom Manley, CEO of TMF. “URAC is the leader in health care accreditation. TMF is dedicated to improving health care provided to America’s citizens and we are pleased to be recognized by this national standard.”
The URAC Health Utilization Management standards establish consistency in utilization management processes. The standards 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 valid clinical criteria.
The URAC Independent Review Organization Accreditation signifies organizations that perform this service are free from conflicts of interest, establish qualifications for physician reviewers, address medical necessity and experimental treatment issues, have reasonable time periods for standard and expedited reviews, and appeals processes. An organization with this URAC accreditation strives for a fair and impartial review process that is of benefit to both patients and physicians with grievances.
“By applying for and receiving Health Utilization Management and Independent Review Organization Accreditations, TMF Health Quality Institute 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.”
About URAC
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 www.urac.org.
About TMF Health Quality Institute
TMF Health Quality Institute, formerly Texas Medical Foundation, is an Austin-based nonprofit consulting company focused on promoting quality health and health care through contracts with federal, state and local governments, as well as private organizations. TMF partners with health care providers in a variety of settings to ensure that every person receives the appropriate care, every time. www.tmf.org