Director, Utilization Review

Bradford Health Services; Lucedale (MS); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Bradford Health Services is seeking a dedicated Utilization Review Specialist to evaluate medical records, treatment plans, and clinical data to determine the necessity and appropriateness of care.

The role collaborates with providers, insurers, and case managers to secure timely approvals, ensure regulatory compliance, and optimize patient outcomes while supporting cost-effective care delivery across the United States.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Health Administration, or related healthcare field.
• At least 2 years in utilization review, case management, or clinical healthcare roles.
• Strong knowledge of medical terminology, clinical procedures, and healthcare regulations.
• Familiarity with insurance authorization processes and utilization management guidelines.
• Excellent communication and analytical skills with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Review and analyze medical records, treatment plans, and clinical documentation to assess the necessity and appropriateness of healthcare services.
• Coordinate with healthcare providers, insurance representatives, and case managers to obtain additional information and clarify treatment details.
• Make informed decisions regarding authorization, continuation, or denial of services based on clinical guidelines, policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Document findings and decisions accurately in electronic health record systems and prepare detailed reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Stay current with healthcare regulations, insurance policies, and clinical best practices to ensure compliance and effective utilization management.

Skills

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Medical terminology

Regulatory knowledge

Attention to detail

EHR proficiency

Utilization review software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Nursing/Health Administration/related field

RN license (preferred)

Utilization Review certification (preferred)

Tools

Electronic Health Records (EHR)

Utilization review software

Job description

About Company

We’re officially a

About Company

We’re officially a Great Place To Work®! We’ve always believed that supporting our team is just as important as supporting our patients. Now, we’re proud to share that we’ve earned Great Place To Work® Certification - based entirely on feedback from our own employees.

Read more here: https://ow.ly/YQ1C50WuRH1

This certification reflects the culture we’ve worked hard to build - one rooted in trust, inclusion, and purpose-driven leadership.

At Bradford Health Services, we are committed to providing exceptional care to our patients while fostering a supportive and rewarding workplace for our employees. We believe that taking care of our team allows them to take better care of others, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their well‑being.

Our Benefits Include

• Medical Coverage – Three new BCBSAL medical plans with better rates, improved co-pays, and enhanced prescription benefits.
• Expanded Coverage – Options for domestic partners and a wider network of in-network providers.
• Mental Health Support – Improved access to services and a new Employee Assistance Program (EAP) featuring digital wellness tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) modules and wellness coaching.
• Voluntary Coverages – Pet insurance, home and auto insurance, family legal services, and more.
• Student Loan Repayment – Available for nurses and therapists.
• Retirement Benefits – 401(k) plan through Voya to help employees plan for the future.
• Generous PTO – A robust paid time off policy to support work‑life balance.
• Voluntary Benefits for Part‑Time Employees – Dental, vision, life, accident insurance, and telehealth options for those working 20 hours or more per week.

At Bradford Health Services, we don’t just invest in our patients—we invest in our people.

About The Role

The Utilization Review Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring that healthcare services provided to patients are medically necessary, efficient, and compliant with regulatory standards. This position involves thorough evaluation of patient records, treatment plans, and clinical data to determine the appropriateness of care and resource utilization. The specialist collaborates closely with healthcare providers, insurance companies, and case managers to facilitate timely approvals and optimize patient outcomes. By applying clinical knowledge and analytical skills, the role helps to control healthcare costs while maintaining high-quality patient care. Ultimately, the Utilization Review Specialist contributes to the integrity and sustainability of healthcare delivery systems across the United States.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Health Administration, or a related healthcare field.
• At least 2 years of experience in utilization review, case management, or clinical healthcare roles.
• Strong knowledge of medical terminology, clinical procedures, and healthcare regulations.
• Familiarity with insurance authorization processes and utilization management guidelines.
• Excellent communication and analytical skills with attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications

• Registered Nurse (RN) license or relevant clinical certification.
• Experience working with electronic health record (EHR) systems and utilization review software.
• Certification in Utilization Review (e.g., Certified Professional in Utilization Review or Certified Case Manager).
• Knowledge of specific payer policies and healthcare reimbursement models.
• Advanced training in healthcare compliance and quality assurance.

Responsibilities

• Review and analyze medical records, treatment plans, and clinical documentation to assess the necessity and appropriateness of healthcare services.
• Coordinate with healthcare providers, insurance representatives, and case managers to obtain additional information and clarify treatment details.
• Make informed decisions regarding authorization, continuation, or denial of services based on clinical guidelines, policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Document findings and decisions accurately in electronic health record systems and prepare detailed reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Stay current with healthcare regulations, insurance policies, and clinical best practices to ensure compliance and effective utilization management.

Skills

The Utilization Review Specialist uses clinical expertise and analytical skills daily to evaluate patient care plans and determine medical necessity. Strong communication skills are essential for collaborating effectively with healthcare providers and insurance representatives to gather information and explain decisions. Attention to detail ensures accurate documentation and compliance with regulatory standards. Proficiency with electronic health records and utilization management software facilitates efficient case review and reporting. Additionally, staying informed about healthcare policies and clinical guidelines enables the specialist to make well‑informed, ethical decisions that balance patient care quality with cost containment.