A suggested schema for utilization review for a Community Mental Health Center

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Mental Health Informatics
• Clinical Record Management

Background:

• Outpatient community mental health centers require standardized record formats.
• Existing record-keeping systems may not meet the comprehensive needs of these centers.
• Effective utilization review processes depend on standardized data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate three distinct record-keeping models for suitability in an outpatient mental health center setting.
• To identify the optimal standardized record format for comprehensive community mental health services.
• To inform the development of utilization review processes within these centers.

Main Methods:

• An interdisciplinary committee examined three record-keeping models: Model Criteria Set, Problem Oriented Record, and a Combination Diagnosis and Standardized Problem List.
• A modified Combination System, based on a model from Cleveland Metropolitan General Hospital, was developed.
• An audit committee utilized the developed system to initiate a Utilization Review process.

Main Results:

• The study identified a modified Combination System as a viable solution for standardized record-keeping.
• This modified system facilitated the commencement of a Utilization Review process.
• The developed schema provides a practical tool for mental health centers.

Conclusions:

• A modified Combination Diagnosis and Standardized Problem List system offers a standardized approach for outpatient mental health centers.
• This model supports the implementation of effective utilization review processes.
• The schema is recommended for centers developing their utilization review protocols.