interviewing for UR position

Specialties Case Management

Published

Specializes in Utilization Review, OB GYN, NICU.

I used to work FT days, but switched to PT nights 2 years ago. I have 14 years of NICU experience and 4 years of high risk OBGYN / Mother-Baby nursing experience. I care for high risk antepartum and postpartum women, newborns, gynecology and gyn/onc pts pre and post surgery. As Charge Nurse, I rounded with physicians and case managers, assessed patients' progressive care status, and attended care conferences with families and the team to fine tune the plan of care. I also work with residents. I have questioned many orders and 'put out many fires' in my career. I am now interested in working as a non-bedside nurse. I see CM and UR as a vital component in our evolving health care system.

I have interviewed for this position with the manager and team leader, and have a peer interview next week. It is doing Utilization Review for gyn/onc and dialysis pts. (I have peritoneal dialysis experience from NICU, and have had adult pts with dialysis shunts.)

My question is this: Is UR the first on the chopping block when lay offs happen? I ask this because lay offs have happened this past year in every hospital system in my area, and one hospital system is starting to merge the CM and UR responsibilities.

Any insight and advice would be appreciated!

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Utilization Review will never be on the chopping block but as you mentioned it may be merged into a more comprehensive role that includes discharge planning, etc. Utilization Review is the foundation of the healthcare reimbursement system. It is not going away. This is an excellent pathway into other types of case management in the future. I wouldn't worry about the availability of this job. Learn all that you can and your future options will only be improved upon.

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Specializes in Utilization Review, OB GYN, NICU.

Thanks for the input. That's what I plan to do!

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Specializes in ED, ICU, MS/MT, PCU, CM, House Sup, Frontline mgr.

OP: I agree with Paul B. In fact, I have worked in a few hospital systems that have lay-offs of bedside nurses and nurses in other roles, but they did not touch the case management departments to the surprise of those who have no clue as to what it is we do. Basically, we make and save money for our companies! On the other hand, due to reorganization some of the UR nurses were re-trained to go from only UR to accepting a floor position to become the CM for a unit (a merging of roles and responsibilities as you have noted). So, to be on the safe side, always be sure to have an open mind and a willing attitude to the changes that may come with your new job. Good luck. :)

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Specializes in Utilization Review, OB GYN, NICU.

I got the job! I am so excited. I am researching by going to cmsa.org, and ceu's for UR/CM on nurse.com

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How did the interview go?

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