Author: Patsy Newitt

ASCs are rewriting the anesthesia playbook, leaning more heavily on certified registered nurse anesthetists amid economic pressures and staffing shortages.  The rise of CRNA-only ASCs Across the U.S., many ASCs are transitioning away from physician-supervised anesthesia to CRNA-only care. A…

Optum is extending its influence in outpatient care with another high-profile acquisition. Its subsidiary, SCA Health, one of the nation’s largest ASC operators, acquired Exton, Pa.-based U.S. Digestive Health Management in early 2025.  Formed in 2019 through the consolidation of…

The ASC industry has seen a wave of transformative transactions in 2025.  Three major moves are reshaping the competitive landscape and redefining what’s at stake for patients, physicians and payers: 1. Optum’s SCA Health acquires U.S. Digestive Health Management In…

Sacramento-based Sutter Health will close its Sutter Amador Surgery Center in Jackson, Calif., on Oct. 3, according to a statement shared with Becker’s. Here are five things to know: 1. The center, which provides non-emergency procedures such as endoscopies, cataract…

Anesthesiologists working in academic settings earn a median total compensation of $450,000, compared to $500,000 in nonacademic roles, according to Marit Health data. Three key takeaways: 1. The 10% difference between academic and nonacademic anesthesiologist pay is relatively modest compared…

While malpractice filings have declined nearly 20% in 10 years, the severity of claims is rising, according to a new analysis from Claggett, Sykes & Garza Trial Lawyers. In 2024 alone, payouts reached $4.93 billion, averaging $433,000 per case. Here…

Optum subsidiary SCA Health, one of the largest ASC chains in the country, acquired one of the country’s largest gastroenterology physician groups in early 2025 from a private equity owner. Here are five things to know: 1. Exton, Pa.-based U.S.…

Amid rapid consolidation and declining physician autonomy, Charleston, S.C.-based Articularis Healthcare Group has built a model to keep community rheumatologists independent while giving them the scale and resources to thrive. Founded 10 years ago from a single practice, Articularis has…

While the projected shortage of 6,300 anesthesiologists by 2036 may seem far off, its impact is already emerging. Financial pressures, staffing challenges and shifting care models are reshaping how surgical care is delivered, and anesthesia leaders warn that the next…

Pediatric nephrology is the physician specialty that saw the highest pay jump in the last year, according to Doximity’s “Physician Compensation Report 2025.” Doximity examined data from about 230,000 survey responses over the past six years, including responses from 37,000…