ASCs’ labor cost predicament 

High labor costs paired with worker shortages have been affecting ASCs’ ability to staff their centers.

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In the last year, 56% of ASCs have seen an increase in volume, but 68% of facilities are still having a more difficult time recruiting experienced operating room nurses, according to a 2023 survey from ORManager.

The trend is reflected nationwide. U.S. companies saw the highest level of job cuts in January since early 2023 and the lowest planned hiring level for the month since 2009, according to a report from CNBC

Additionally, labor costs are rising across the country. 

From 2022 to 2023, the percentage of healthcare providers with an internal minimum wage of more than $15 per hour went from 15.6% to 29.1%, according to a recent survey from consulting firm SullivanCotter. Additionally, 90% of providers have an internal hourly minimum wage higher than the federal, state and local wage.

ASCs in many markets have to compete for staff with hospitals, who are able to offer higher salaries. As a result, many ASC leaders are looking to implement creative solutions to recruit and retain staff. 

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.

Register to Attend Webinar

Beyond the bottleneck: How health systems are improving access, flow and care continuity

Thursday, July 30
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM CDT

Presenters: Imamu Tomlinson, MD, MBA, VituityWilliam Morice II, MD, PhD, Mayo Clinic LaboratoriesJordan Dale, MD, Houston MethodistAsh Tengshe, City of HopeChris Klay, MHA, MA, PT, FACHE, Hospital Sisters Health System

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