What do managed care plans sometimes require prior to scheduling elective surgery?

Managed care plans often require a second surgical opinion before scheduling elective surgery to ensure the necessity and appropriateness of the procedure. This practice helps to verify that the proposed surgery is indeed recommended and not just a convenient choice, potentially reducing unnecessary procedures and healthcare costs. Encouraging a second opinion provides an additional layer of oversight, aiming to enhance patient safety and treatment outcomes.

In contrast, preadmission reviews and certifications focus more on assessing medical necessity and confirming that the planned admission and procedures are covered by the insurance policy. A risk contract is more related to the terms under which healthcare providers agree to offer care, particularly in capitation or managed risk payment scenarios, rather than a specific step prior to surgery. Understanding these different processes is crucial for navigating health insurance billing effectively.