Salem, Ore.-based Northbank Surgical Center has a fast-growing cardiovascular program and is a great example of how ASCs can be successful with cardiac rhythm management procedures.
Northbank Surgical Center, a Surgical Care Affiliates partner, experienced a 300 percent growth in CRM case volume from 2013 to 2016, illustrating the huge need for outpatient cardiovascular programs and opportunity for ASCs. With the demand growing, Northbank plans to break ground on a new center with additional capacity and resources for cardiovascular procedures.
Here are five key notes on Northbank Surgical Center and its CRM procedures based on a case study:
1. The ASC is appealing to physicians because they can easily schedule cases and know the procedures will start on time.
2. Patients are impressed by the ASC environment and pleased with a lower out-of-pocket payment. On average, cardiovascular procedures at the ASC cost 30 percent less than in the hospital.
3. The partnership with SCA offered the Northbank a strategic operator to help transition the cardiovascular cases as well as build relationships with health plans.
4. Northbank Surgical Center currently offers pacemakers, AICDs, battery change-outs and cardiac event monitors.
5. The ASC hasn't reported any complications or infections with the cardiovascular procedures, which have been performed there for several years.