There are a number of reasons that ASCs may seek a partnership with a hospital or health system to open more facilities, according to L.E.K. Consulting’s “2024 ASC Insights Study.”
The study surveyed ASCs who are considering partnering with a hospital. The respondents selected the following as a top-three reason why they may pursue the partnership:
- Access to capital: 63%
- Access to group purchasing organization discounts: 50%
- Hospital branding: 50%
- Stronger referral pathway: 38%
- Support services: 38%
ASCs also identified “operating pain points” in the survey, which comprised ongoing operational struggles that larger provider organizations could potentially alleviate. Rating potential pain points on a scale of 1 to 7, 7 being the most significant operational pain point, respondents identified the following reasons as at least a 6 or 7.
- Difficulty recruiting new staff: 39%
- Billing issues with payers: 30%
- Managing out of network patients: 29%
- Excess clinician time spent doing administrative work: 28%
- Patient payment collections: 26%
- Frequently facing out-of-stock situations: 22%
- Inability to find alternative/comparable drugs: 22%
- Difficulty meeting guidelines of accrediting agencies and regulatory bodies: 20%
- Marketing and attracting patients: 19%
- Scheduling difficulty: 18%
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.
