ASCs are attractive to both physicians and patients for their affordability, convenience and flexibility. Yet many ASCs are still behind the innovation curve when it comes to workflow and patient experience.
Les Jebson, administrator of Prisma Health’s Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute in Columbia, S.C., recently joined Becker’s to share his thoughts on where ASCs are lacking in innovation.
Editor’s note: This response has been lightly edited for clarity and length.
Question: What areas of the ASC industry are overdue for innovation?
Les Jebson: Areas of ASCs that are overdue for innovation are predominantly in workflow and the patient experience. ASCs are generally more efficient and cost-effective than hospitals. However, many still rely on outdated administrative systems that create bottlenecks. The rising demand for outpatient care, along with persistent staffing shortages and complex regulatory requirements, makes innovation critical for ASCs to thrive.
In my opinion, specific opportunities include:
- Automation of routine tasks: AI and automation tools could handle tasks like patient check-ins, medical record documentation and appointment reminders. This would free staff to focus on patient-facing care.
- Optimized block scheduling: Instead of static scheduling, ASCs can use data analytics to optimize operating room use, minimize downtime and adjust schedules based on real-time data.
- Comprehensive digital patient engagement: Mobile apps and portals can provide interactive preoperative education, procedure reminders, and personalized recovery tips. These tools reduce patient anxiety and improve compliance.
- Digital pre-admission and follow-up: Secure telecommunications can be used for pre-surgical assessments and post-operative follow-ups. This makes care more convenient and reduces the need for unnecessary in-person visits.
- Seamless digital registration: Secure, pre-registration platforms allow patients to complete forms at home, reducing wait times and clerical errors on the day of surgery.
