FAQ Directory

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about NCQA’s various programs. If you don’t see what you are looking for in one of the entries below, you can  ask a question through My NCQA.

Filter Results
  • Save
  • Email
  • Print

8.24.2018 What is Utilization Management Accreditation?

NCQA Utilization Management Accreditation is a comprehensive program that evaluates the operations of organizations providing full-scope utilization management services, which include using evidence-based criteria, relevant clinical information and qualified health professionals to make utilization management decisions.

This applies to the following Programs and Years:
UM-CR 2017, 2016, 2013|UM-CR-PN 2018, 2019

8.24.2018 Where can I find the Utilization Management Standards and Guidelines?

Find the Standards and Guidelines document in the NCQA eStore.

This applies to the following Programs and Years:
UM-CR 2017|UM-CR-PN 2018, 2019

8.24.2018 What is Provider Network Accreditation?

NCQA Provider Network Accreditation is a comprehensive, evidence-based program dedicated to quality improvement that evaluates the accessibility and transparency of organization networks and credentialing of practitioners and providers. NCQA-Accredited organizations demonstrate they have the internal processes and procedures to effectively manage access to care and member experience while ensuring that practitioners and providers are appropriately credentialed.

This applies to the following Programs and Years:
UM-CR-PN 2018, 2019

8.24.2018 What organizations are eligible for Utilization Management Accreditation?

Utilization Management Accreditation is for organizations that provide full scope utilization management services. Eligible organizations:

  • Must not be licensed as an HMO, POS, PPO or EPO.
  • Must not be eligible for NCQA Accreditation as a health plan or an MBHO.
  • Must perform utilization management functions directly or through a contract.
  • Must perform utilization management activities for at least 50% of the members.
Note: “Members” refers to membership of clients and organizations.

This applies to the following Programs and Years:
UM-CR 2017|UM-CR-PN 2018, 2019

8.24.2018 How long does it take to earn Managed Behavioral Healthcare Accreditation?

The typical evaluation time frame is 12 months from application submission to decision, depending on an organization’s readiness. Some organizations may already be working within NCQA guidelines.

This applies to the following Programs and Years:
MBHO 2017, 2018, 2019

8.24.2018 How long does it take to earn Utilization Management Accreditation?

The typical evaluation time frame is 12 months from application submission to decision, depending on an organization’s readiness. Some organizations may already be working within NCQA guidelines.

This applies to the following Programs and Years:
UM-CR 2017|UM-CR-PN 2018, 2019

8.24.2018 What organizations are eligible for Managed Behavioral Healthcare Accreditation?

Any organization that provides managed health care services may apply for the NCQA Managed Behavioral Healthcare Organization Accreditation if it meets the following criteria:

  • Has been in operation for at least six months, and
  • Enrolls or receives enrollment of an identifiable eligible population that is eligible to access the network, and
  • Provides comprehensive behavioral health care services through an organized delivery system across a continuum of care, and
  • Performs functions addressed in the standards (quality improvement, care coordination, utilization management, credentialing, member rights and responsibilities), either directly or through a service agreement, and
  • Has a process for monitoring, evaluating and improving the quality and safety of care.

This applies to the following Programs and Years:
MBHO 2017, 2018, 2019

8.24.2018 What is the price for Utilization Management Accreditation?

Pricing is based on multiple factors. Obtain full pricing information by submitting a request through My NCQA.

This applies to the following Programs and Years:
UM-CR 2017|UM-CR-PN 2018, 2019

8.24.2018 What are Managed Behavioral Healthcare Accreditation requirements?

The standards, provide a framework for implementing best practices to improve:

  • Quality Management and Improvement: Monitor, evaluate and improve the quality and safety of care.
  • Care Coordination: Coordinate medical care and behavioral healthcare for its members.
  • Utilization Management: Notifies members and practitioners about coverage decisions within required time frames.
  • Credentialing and Recredentialing: Verifies the credentials of the practitioners in its network.
  • Members’ Rights and Responsibilities: Written members’ rights and responsibilities policy exist.

To see the program requirement details, get the Standards & Guidelines document.

This applies to the following Programs and Years:
MBHO 2017, 2018, 2019

8.24.2018 What are the CVO Certification requirements?

CVO Certification assesses an organization’s performance in the following requirement areas:

  • Internal Quality Improvement Process
  • Protecting Credentialing Information
  • Verifying credentials.

NCQA’s CVO Certification program offers the following 11 certification options:

  • License to Practice
  • State Licensing Board Sanctions
  • DEA or CDS Certification
  • Medicare/Medicaid Sanctions
  • Education and Training
  • Practitioner Application Processing
  • Board Certification Status
  • Application and Attestation Content
  • Work History
  • Ongoing Monitoring of Sanctions
  • Malpractice Claims History
 

This applies to the following Programs and Years:
CVO 2016

8.24.2018 What is Long-term Services and Supports Distinction for Health Plans?

NCQA LTSS Distinction for Health Plans is a complementary program designed to support health plans coordinating LTSS. The program standards provide a framework for organizations to deliver efficient, effective person-centered care that meets people’s needs, helps keep people in their preferred setting and aligns with state requirements.

This applies to the following Programs and Years:
HP 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020

8.24.2018 How does Accreditation/Certification help my organization?

NCQA Wellness and Health Promotion Accreditation/Certification focuses on services most desired by employers and health plans as well as expected by consumers. It provides a framework for organizations to implement industry best practices and apply evidence-based methods proven to support health and improve outcomes.

The standards help health and wellness organizations identify gaps for improvement and align their services with  those desired by potential contracting organizations.

 

This applies to the following Programs and Years:
WHP 2014, Cert, 2016, Cert|2013 WHP|Cert 2014|2016 WHP