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Behavioral Health Utilization Management Jobs in Texas

Manager, Behavioral Health

Houston, TX · On-site

$92K - $116K/yr

This role oversees implementation of case management and utilization management workflows for Behavioral Health, serves as a clinical resource for staff, supports policy and procedure implementation ...

Utilization Management

Houston, TX · On-site

$38 - $42/hr

RN Outpatient Utilization Review Remote Texas HealthCare Support is actively seeking multiple ... Communicates concerns that arise in these discussions to the Manager and/or Medical Director.

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Behavioral Health Utilization Management information

See Texas salary details

$19

$39

$64

How much do behavioral health utilization management jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health utilization management in Texas is $39.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.15 and $45.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Utilization Management vs Behavioral Health Case Manager?

AspectBehavioral Health Utilization ManagementBehavioral Health Case Manager
CredentialsLicenses (e.g., RN, LCSW), certifications in utilization reviewLicenses (e.g., LCSW, LPC), case management certifications
Work EnvironmentInsurance companies, healthcare organizations, utilization review departmentsHospitals, community clinics, outpatient facilities
Employer & Industry UsageHealth insurance providers, managed care organizationsBehavioral health agencies, hospitals, outpatient clinics

Behavioral Health Utilization Management focuses on reviewing and authorizing mental health services to ensure appropriate care and cost management. In contrast, Behavioral Health Case Managers coordinate ongoing patient care, providing support and resources to improve treatment outcomes. Both roles require relevant licenses and certifications but differ in their primary responsibilities and work settings.

What are common challenges in behavioral health utilization management and how are they addressed?

Behavioral Health Utilization Management professionals often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, keeping up with evolving clinical guidelines, and ensuring timely communication with providers and insurance companies. Balancing the need for cost containment with advocating for appropriate patient care can also be demanding. These challenges are typically addressed through ongoing training, strong teamwork, and the use of evidence-based criteria and decision-support tools to guide determinations and streamline workflows.

What is behavioral health utilization management?

Behavioral Health Utilization Management is a process used by insurance companies and healthcare organizations to evaluate the necessity, appropriateness, and efficiency of behavioral health services such as mental health and substance use treatments. This process helps ensure that patients receive the right level of care based on clinical guidelines while managing healthcare costs. Utilization managers review treatment plans, authorize services, and coordinate with providers to promote quality outcomes and avoid unnecessary services. Their work is essential in balancing patient needs with resource allocation in the healthcare system.

What skills and qualifications are needed for behavioral health utilization management?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Utilization Management professional, you need a background in behavioral health or clinical care, often with an RN, LCSW, LPC, or similar licensure and experience in mental health care settings. Familiarity with utilization review software, insurance guidelines, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and negotiation skills are essential soft skills to effectively evaluate treatment plans and coordinate with providers. These competencies are vital to ensuring appropriate, cost-effective care while maintaining compliance with regulatory and payer requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Behavioral Health Utilization Management jobs in Texas?

For Behavioral Health Utilization Management jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Behavioral Health Utilization Management jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Behavioral Health Utilization Management jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Behavioral Health Utilization Management jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Behavioral Health Utilization Management job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Utilization Management job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,936 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Remote UTILIZATION REVIEW NURSE - RN

Nexus Health Systems

Houston, TX • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Nexus Health Systems rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Remote Utilization Review Registered Nurse (UR RN)

Nexus Health Systems is seeking an experienced Utilization Review Registered Nurse (UR RN) to join our growing Utilization Management team. This fully remote position plays a critical role in ensuring patients receive medically necessary, high-quality care while promoting appropriate resource utilization and regulatory compliance.

If you're a detail-oriented RN with experience in utilization review, case management, or behavioral health and enjoy collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to improve patient outcomes, we'd love to hear from you.

What You'll Do
  • Conduct concurrent and retrospective utilization reviews to determine medical necessity and appropriate level of care.
  • Apply evidence-based criteria, including InterQual (or similar), to support clinical decision-making and payer compliance.
  • Collaborate with physicians, case managers, and interdisciplinary teams to facilitate timely authorizations, discharge planning, and appropriate transitions of care.
  • Review clinical documentation to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with payer and regulatory requirements.
  • Manage insurance authorizations, denials, appeals, and level-of-care determinations.
  • Monitor utilization trends and contribute to quality improvement initiatives that enhance patient outcomes and operational efficiency.
  • Participate in multidisciplinary utilization review meetings and provide recommendations to optimize care delivery.
  • Maintain accurate documentation within the electronic health record (EHR) while ensuring HIPAA compliance.
Qualifications

Required

  • Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from an accredited nursing program.
  • Current, unrestricted Texas RN license or Compact RN license.
  • Minimum of 2 years of acute care clinical nursing experience.
  • At least 3 years of Utilization Review or Case Management experience involving complex medical/surgical and/or behavioral health patients.
  • Strong knowledge of payer guidelines, medical necessity criteria, and utilization management principles.
  • Excellent critical thinking, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Proficiency with electronic health records (EHRs) and Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
  • Experience with InterQual or MCG criteria.
  • Behavioral health utilization review experience.
  • Experience with Meditech.
  • Professional certifications such as CCM, CPHQ, or HCQM.
Why Nexus Health Systems?

At Nexus Health Systems, our mission is to improve lives through compassionate, high-quality care. As a member of our Utilization Review team, you'll collaborate with dedicated healthcare professionals while helping ensure patients receive the right care at the right time.

We offer:

  • Competitive compensation
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Professional development and continuing education opportunities
  • A collaborative, mission-driven culture
  • Fully remote work environment

If you're ready to make a meaningful impact in healthcare while enjoying the flexibility of working remotely, we'd love to hear from you.


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