For Immediate Release

Silver Spring, Maryland
March 7, 2006

APS Healthcare Receives URAC Health Utilization Management Accreditation

APS Healthcare, one of the country's leading specialty healthcare companies, announced today that it has been awarded Health Utilization Management Accreditation from URAC, a Washington, D.C.-based health care accrediting organization that establishes quality standards for the health care industry. The accreditation applies to APS' Maryland behavioral health operations.

“We are excited to be recognized by URAC,” said Eileen Auen, APS' CEO. “This accomplishment demonstrates APS' commitment to provide its customers and members with programs and services that rate among the highest standards in the industry.”

The URAC Health Utilization Management standards establish consistency in UM processes. The standards ensure that only appropriately trained, qualified clinical personnel conduct and oversee the utilization review process, that a reasonable and timely appeals process is in place, and that medical decisions are based on valid clinical criteria.

“By applying for and receiving Health Utilization Management accreditation, APS Healthcare has demonstrated a commitment to quality health care,” said Charles Stellar, URAC board chair. “Quality health care is crucial to our nation's welfare and it is important to have organizations that are willing to measure themselves against national standards.”

About URAC
URAC, an independent, nonprofit organization, is a leader in promoting health care quality through accreditation and certification programs. URAC's standards keep pace with the rapid changes in the health care system, and provide a mark of distinction for health care organizations to demonstrate their commitment to quality and accountability. Through its broad-based governance structure and an inclusive standards development process, URAC ensures that all stakeholders are represented in setting meaningful standards for the health care industry. For more information, visit www.urac.org.

About APS
APS Healthcare, headquartered in Silver Spring, Md., is a leading provider of specialty healthcare solutions that cover more than 20 million members in the United States and Puerto Rico. APS offers customized, integrated healthcare solutions across two major healthcare product lines – care management and behavioral health services. APS operates under the belief that managing healthcare for the mind and body improves overall health and reduces total healthcare spending.

For more information, contact:

Sarah Clark-Lynn
Manager, Corporate Communications
APS Healthcare
800-305-3720, ext. 3266
sclynn@apshealthcare.com