Entering new markets ranked last among nine reasons hospitals and health systems own or affiliate with ASCs, but more than a quarter of leaders still cited it.
Twenty-seven percent of respondents to the 7th Hospital Leadership ASC Survey from Avanza + MedHQ, conducted with HealthLeaders Media, named entering new markets as a reason for their ASC investments. Respondents could choose up to three reasons. Increasing outpatient surgical capacity ranked first, at 38%.
The report called the finding evidence that ASC strategy is becoming a growth lever alongside its traditional defensive role. Defensive motives still rank higher: 36% of respondents cited keeping physicians from taking cases outside the hospital or system, which has climbed several spots since the 2023 edition.
Several health systems have used ASCs and outpatient partnerships to expand beyond their home markets in the past year.
Most recently, Cincinnati-based Bon Secours Mercy Health agreed in October, through its affiliate HealthSpan Partners, to acquire Surgery Partners in an all-cash deal valued at about $5.7 billion including debt. Surgery Partners has more than 200 locations in 30 states. Separately, Bon Secours plans ASCs in all seven states where it operates through its partnership with Compass Surgical Partners and is considering North Carolina.
Most health systems already have a base to expand from. Eighty-nine percent of survey respondents have at least one ASC that is affiliated, owned or under development, and 96% plan continued ASC investment, according to the survey.
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.
