Patsy Newitt

Cardiovascular Institute of the South is reportedly the first in the U.S. to use the Philips Laser System Neximer to reopen blockages in arteries, Biz New Orleans reported. 

Healthcare Real Estate Advisors sold an ASC and two medical office buildings in Manhattan, Kan., Christopher Stai,  managing director and principal of the firm, said Oct. 28.

The University of Maryland Shore Regional Health at Cambridge, a new $53 million medical facility with an ASC, began accepting patients Oct. 28, according to The Star Democrat. 

Bellin Health announced plans for an ASC in Ashwaubenon, Wis., the Green Bay Press Gazette reported Oct. 28. 

JPS Health Network is seeking funds to offset the costs of a $1.2 billion expansion that includes an ASC in Fort Worth, Texas, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported Oct. 27. 

Excela Health has finished a $10 million surgery center that will focus on cancer treatment at its Latrobe (Penn.) Hospital, Trib Live reported Oct. 27. 

The Sweetwater (Tenn.) Hospital Association opened a patient tower and gastroenterology practice, local NBC affiliate WBIR reported Oct. 27.  

Community Health Network's motion to dismiss a case alleging the health system violated the Stark Law by rewarding physician referrals and exceeding fair market physician compensation values was denied Oct. 20 by the U.S. District Court. 

There are 35 states in the country that have a certificate-of-need program — laws designed to control healthcare costs by restricting competition for duplicative services and determining whether capital expenditures meet a community need.

Here are eight COVID-19 updates from the past week: