From the potential fallout of federal legislation to the rising costs of anesthesia services, two ASC administrators joined Becker’s to discuss the biggest financial threats they’re monitoring this quarter.
Question: If you had to name one financial threat you’re watching closely this quarter, what would it be?
Editor’s note: These responses were edited lightly for clarity and length:
Suzi Cunningham. Administrator of Advanced Ambulatory Surgery Center (Redlands, Calif.): We are watching closely how the H.R.1 bill is likely to impact our center and others like ours. We live in an area of California that has a large population of patients that depend on Medi-Cal services. There is concern that if these patients lose coverage, they will stop seeking out care. Or those that seek care, will be unable to afford their patient responsibility, or will be uninsured. Ultimately, it is too soon to tell.
We remain hopeful that the impact of the bill will be gradual, and as such, will allow those that may lose services time to take the necessary steps to meet the new requirements, so they can maintain their coverage. Bottom line, we will be watching the impact of this bill closely so we can be as prepared as possible.
Stephanie Kirby, RN, CASC. Administrator of the Surgery Center at the Forum (Columbia, Mo.): The biggest threat we are keeping our eye on is our contracted services with anesthesia providers. Anesthesia providers have such a shortage, and their rates they are charging keep going up and up.
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.