Note: This response has been lightly edited for length and clarity.
Diane Blanck: The biggest issues challenging ophthalmic ASCs in 2023 in priority order are:
1. The availability of physicians. The pool of new physicians is shrinking and smaller than the retiring physician segment. The challenge is exacerbated by the fact that many physicians are being employed or contracted by private equity firms driving consolidation of the industry.
2. Availability and increased cost of anesthesia providers to work at ASCs.
3. The availability, retention and cost of qualified medical staff.
4. Shrinking profits, caused by increased cost of staff, anesthesia provision, supplies, etc. Even though ophthalmic ASCs have had 24 consecutive years of increased reimbursement rates (tied to hospital rates), rising costs eat up potential increases. ASCs receive 50 percent of the reimbursement rate of hospitals even though our costs are commensurate.
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.