PSROs in dentistry

Abstract

Although the discussion of Professional Standards Review Organizations (PSROs) has been directed almost entirely to medical care, dentistry will not only become part of the process, it can also lead the way. This paper presents a brief review of the background of dental PSROs and the experience of U.S. Administrators as a prototype PSRO, including a description of the quality assurance system and data based on 2 yr experience. The significance of this paper is the demonstration that effective implementation of PSRO principles in dentistry will not only improve the quality of dental care programs but will also pay for itself by eliminating unnecessary and excessive services.