Here are five things ASCs need to know:
1. The physician group has said a victory in the suit, which also asks the court to declare these structures illegal, would lead to the prohibition of the practice across California in emergency rooms, anesthesiology and hospital medicine.
2. The suit could also spur prosecutors in other states to look at corporate medicine prohibitions more seriously.
3. While 33 states have rules against corporate practice of medicine, companies are sidestepping bans by buying or establishing staffing groups. These groups, while nominally physician-owned, restrict physician authority and prevent them from having control.
4. “We’re not asking them to pay money, and we will not accept being paid to drop the case,” David Millstein, lead attorney for the plaintiff, told Kaiser Health News. “We are simply asking the court to ban this practice model.”
5. The suit is set to go to trial in January 2024.
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.