The share of ASCs reporting adequate access to anesthesia providers has reached its highest level since 2022, according to the Ambulatory Surgery Center Association’s third-quarter 2026 60-Second Survey, published Oct. 16.
Of the 307 surgery centers across 44 states that responded, 76% reported adequate access. That’s up from 70% in 2024, 64% in 2023 and 56% in 2022. Access varied by facility size. Among small ASCs with one or two operating or procedure rooms, 85% reported adequate access, compared with 70% of large ASCs with five or more rooms.
Limited availability of anesthesia providers (81%) and the high cost of those providers (66%) were the most commonly cited barriers. Respondents also named low reimbursement tied to a high share of government payers and competition with local hospitals. Among centers that reported difficulty keeping anesthesia providers, 75% said the problem affected procedure volume. That share is unchanged from 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.
