preauthorization

preauthorization,

n 1. the approval of or concurrence with the treatment plan proposed by a participating dental professional before the provision of service. Under some plans, preauthorization by the carrier is required before certain services can be provided.
n 2. a statement by a third-party payer indicating that proposed treatment will be covered under the terms of the dental benefits contract. See also precertification and predetermination.

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preauthorization Managed care The requirement by an HMO that a costly surgery, specialist referral or non emergency health care services be approved by the insurer before it is allowed. See HMO.