What is one of the main goals of utilization review?

Utilization review primarily aims to evaluate the necessity and appropriateness of services provided to clients. This process ensures that individuals receive the most effective and suitable interventions while optimizing resource use. It involves analyzing whether the services being delivered are necessary based on the client’s specific circumstances and treatment plans, ultimately enhancing the quality and effectiveness of social work practices.

In this context, utilization review helps identify any potential overuse or underuse of services, providing a framework for accountability and ensuring that funding and resources are allocated efficiently. This process not only protects clients by ensuring they receive appropriate care but also helps organizations manage their resources more sustainably.

The other choices do not reflect the core focus of utilization review. For instance, reducing the number of social workers doesn't align with the intent of ensuring service quality and efficacy. Training social workers on new technologies, while crucial for professional development, falls outside the scope of utilization review's primary goal. Lastly, while collaboration may occur in various contexts, limiting partnerships solely to government agencies does not encapsulate the broader objective of evaluating service necessity. Thus, the aim of evaluating necessity and appropriateness truly captures the essence of utilization review.