How a New Jersey ASC Moved In-Network

Like other ambulatory surgery centers in New Jersey, Short Hills Surgery Center was once 100 percent out-of-network but has been under intense pressure from the state legislature and major payors to go in-network. Nancy Easley-Mack, business office manager of the eight-OR ASC in Millburn N.J., explained how it made the change to a hybrid ASC, with both in-network and out-of-network claims. She spoke at the 9th Annual Orthopedic, Spine and Pain-Management Driven ASC Conference in Chicago.

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Negotiating with payors. Negotiations lasted for five months. “The language of the contract will drive your entire agreement,” Ms. Easley-Mack says. “Don’t be afraid to redline the boilerplate agreement again and again until you have a clear understanding of the payment guideline.” In-network fees don’t have to be a percent of Medicare, she said. They could be flat case rate, a percentage of billed charges or a percentage of group rates, and they should include carve-outs for implants, supplies and medications.


Two separate billing companies. With 65 percent of its business in-network and 35 percent still out-of-network, Short Hills uses two outsourced billing companies, one for each type of bill, which requires coordination between the companies. After a transition period, the ASC has seen a 30 percent increase in case volume, reduced A/R days and a predictable reimbursement for 65 percent of cases.

 

Learn more about Short Hills Surgery Center.

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At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.

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