ASCs are facing mounting financial headwinds, with anesthesia costs, supply expenses and labor shortages topping the list of concerns for 2026, according to a VMG Health survey released Oct. 9.
VMG Health surveyed 97 ASC leaders in September from both independently owned and joint venture centers.
Here are the most prominent financial challenges leaders expect:
- Anesthesia coverage or cost: 67%
- Supply and drug costs or supply chain challenges: 64%
- Labor shortages or contract labor: 45%
- Payer contract negotiations: 36%
- Physician loss or retirement: 27%
- Aging infrastructure or reinvestment in physical plant: 20%
- Payer mix shift: 10%
- Information technology investment: 7%
- Other: 2%
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.