The provisions in the final regulation mirror the regulations that were proposed in April, and several will impact ASCs.
Under the law, applications to build new ASCs will require information on “how a proposed project affects the accessibility and delivery of health care services to enhance health equity and contribute to mitigating health disparities in the facility’s service area, specifically for medically underserved groups.”
The applications will be required to contain information including the demographics of the area, medically underserved groups in the area, impact of the project on medically underserved groups, professional staffing issues related to the project and how the project will improve access to services.
The new rule will be applicable to any ASCs submitting certificate of need applications for the construction or purchase of equipment, the establishment of a new operator, and mergers, consolidations or creations of a new parent entity, acquisitions to purchase facilities and all other changes to the operating certificate.
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.