The paper presents the conceptual framework and research strategy of the psychiatric utilization review and evaluation (PURE) project at the Connecticut Mental Health Center. Review by structure, by outcome and by process are considered briefly. The Basic Utilization Review Program was developed to provide a more sophisticated and economical analysis of process. The author's conception of utilization review encompasses a review of: (1) which patients come to the center; (2) what priorities are assigned to patients; (3) what services are provided; and (4) outcome. Four stages in the research program are delineated: (1) the development of criteria for evaluating patient care; (2) testing the criteria for feasibility. reliability and validity; (3) implementing the above utilization review mechanism; and (4) exporting the system of evaluation and review to other mental health centers. The general model is examined. (TL)