Issue link: https://beckershealthcare.uberflip.com/i/572638
ASC Efficiency: Best Strategies to Overcome Today's Toughest Challenges By Laura Dyrda Ambulatory surgery center efficiency is important, but there are several challenges for today's centers. Arvind Movva, MD, CEO of Regional SurgiCenter in Moline, Ill., discusses how his center is rising to the occasion and preparing for success in the future. EHR implementation Electronic health records and automated practice man- agement systems are becoming more common to col- lect data, record patient information and comply with ere are several big themes that currently run throughout the ASC industry. ese include pressures on reimbursement and case numbers, reductions in the number of inde- pendent physicians, evolving payer control in many markets, issues with hospital control in many markets, the evolution of narrow networks and the movement towards consumer payment. In short, it is a daunting and fascinating time for ASCs. Here are 14 issues to consider: 1. The big four ASC specialties. e big four specialties for ASCs in- clude ophthalmology, orthopedics, GI and pain management. Overall, these specialties remain strong and reasonably independent. Ophthal- mology, GI and pain management provide the largest number of cases to ASCs by case volume. Orthope- dics, in contrast, comprises 15 per- cent of all ASC surgeries, but is very important by revenue. Ophthalmology remains a stalwart for ASCs for several reasons. First, it is largely paid for by Medicare so the case volumes and payments are not as dependent on changes in the com- mercial insurance market. (i.e., about 80 percent-plus of ophthalmology is likely paid by Medicare). Second, Flipping HOPDs to ASCs: A New Industry Trend? 5 Key Thoughts By Carrie Pallardy Hospital outpatient departments have traditionally yield- ed favorable reimbursement, while remaining firmly un- der a hospital's control. Oentimes hospitals in the mar- ket for ASC acquisitions would buy a center and convert it into an HOPD. But, recently there have been a number of transactions completely opposite in nature. Hospitals are now under pressure to find high-quality, low-cost settings for care. ASCs are ready-made to meet these demands, while serving as strong vehicles continued on page 11 continued on page 8 continued on page 14 14 Observations, Thoughts & Issues for ASCs 2015–2016 By Scott Becker and Mary Rechtoris Inside the issue: Orthopedic & GI Special Sections Key issues for orthopedic surgeons, physician payment and colonoscopy updates. p. 22 and 75 Insurance Company Mega Mergers What the mergers mean for healthcare and ASCs. p. 95 32 Key Apps for ASCs Three key articles list trendy apps for ASC physicians, administrators and nurses. p. 14 HIPAA Compliance in the Digital Age Eleven key points for ASC leaders on HIPAA compliance. p. 17 Becker's Spine Review E-Weekly free educational up-to-date For more information, visit www.beckersorthopedicandspine.com or call (800) 417-2035. SIGN UP TODAY INSIDE: 50 Things to Know About the ASC Industry September/October 2015 • Vol. 2015 No. 7