ASCs focused on gastroenterology and endoscopy are navigating two forces pulling in opposite directions.
Recruiting physician partners has become one of the toughest operational challenges centers face. A VMG Health survey found that 61 ASCs named physician recruitment their top risk heading into 2026, as fewer physicians are willing to take on the buy-in costs and ownership responsibilities that come with joining a center.
At the same time, demand for outpatient GI care keeps climbing — the GI ambulatory surgery market is valued at $6.2 billion and is projected to grow nearly 7% annually through 2030, pushing centers to invest in capacity even as they compete for physicians to staff it.
Two ASC leaders recently joined Becker’s to share what has driven growth at their facility over the last year.
Question: What has been the biggest contributor to your facility’s growth over the last year?
Tracey Carlson, RN. Assistant Clinical Director at East Valley Endoscopy (Mesa, Ariz.): We actually had two doctors retire and so have been actively seeking another physician to join our center. We have remodeled our center with new cabinets throughout the center and are looking at new flooring by the end of the year with upgrading of our security system.
Karen Becker, BSN, RN. CEO Endoscopy Associates of Valley Forge (Pa.): The biggest contributor to our facility’s growth over the last year has been a combination of strong physician relationships, operational efficiency and a continued focus on providing high-quality, accessible care. These efforts have helped us expand patient access, strengthen referral patterns and support sustainable growth.
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.
