Answer: also known as Utilization Review (UR); an area that performs critical tasks during registration and a patient's stay, such as reducing unnecessary admissions; managing the approved length of stay; ensuring an appropriate level of care for the patient's condition; serving as liaison with the primary and specialty physicians; serving as liaison with the insurance carrier; obtaining approvals, when clinically necessary, for pre-certification/re-certification; advising the patient of discharge; and assisting with appeals for denials, when applicable.