Pre-Operative Tests Drawing Increased Payer Scrutiny, Orthopedic Group Says

Some California surgeons say they are facing an increased number of payer denials for pre-operative testing, a situation that may delay treatment for injured workers or even increase their risk during surgery. In a white paper published last month, the California Orthopaedic Association says that the denials are coming from payers or utilization review organizations even when the surgery itself is approved. “As payers look for more cost savings, COA is anticipating that getting authorization for pre-operative testing will become an increasing problem for surgical patients,” ...