In 2025, CMS added several cardiology codes to the ASC Covered Procedures List for 2026, including complex cardiac arrhythmia ablation procedures.
Industry groups, including the American College of Cardiology and the Heart Rhythm Society, have long advocated for expanding the ASC-covered procedures list, arguing that advancements in technology, workflow and safety protocols have made more cardiovascular procedures feasible outside the hospital.
Investments and expansions have followed, with numerous hospitals, health systems and specialty groups expanding their outpatient cardiovascular offerings.
Here are five recent updates in the rapidly developing outpatient cardiology space:
1. Mercy Fort Smith (Ark.) opened a specialty cardiology clinic at Mercy Tower West in Fort Smith, Ark. Mercy Clinic Cardiology – Tower West provides treatment of services including acute coronary syndrome, heart disease and pulmonary hypertension.
2. El Dorado Heart, a new cardiology practice led by interventional cardiologist Ayobami Eluwole, MD, opened two new clinics in El Dorado and Camden, Ark. The two locations focus on general cardiology, interventional cardiology, and diagnosis and treatment of peripheral artery disease.
3. Medtech company Johnson & Johnson and ACCESS, a physician-led management services organization, have signed a multiyear preferred portfolio agreement to expand adoption of advanced cardiac electrophysiology technologies in ASCs.
4. The Cardiovascular Institute of Northwest Florida expanded its ASC in Panama City, Fla., adding new heart and vascular procedures that let patients return home the same day.
5. A newly constructed cardiovascular surgery center in Covington, La., was sold for $8.81 million. The property, occupied by Cardiovascular Specialty Care Center, totals 10,690 square feet and is staffed by eight physicians who are affiliated with US Heart & Vascular.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.
