Nearly one-third of ASCs offer financial assistance in their contracts with anesthesia providers or groups, according to the Ambulatory Surgery Center Association’s third-quarter 2026 60-Second Survey, published Oct. 16.
Here are five things to know:
1. Of the 307 respondents, 31% reported offering financial incentives, consistent with 30% in 2024.
2. Large ASCs were the most likely to offer assistance, at 43%.
3. Incentives were less common at facilities owned only by physicians (23%) and at those staffed only by anesthesiologists (17%).
4. Stipend contracts remain the most common form of assistance, cited by 51% of respondents, followed by collections guarantees at 29%. Both figures are in line with 2024.
5. Use of flat subsidies keeps falling. It dropped to 15% in 2026 from 21% in 2024 and 27% in 2023.
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.
