Dr. Lauro received his medical degree from the University of Rochester in New York, completed his residency at Ohio State University and completed a joint replacement surgery fellowship at the National Hospital for Orthopedics and Rehabilitation in Arlington, Va. He is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the Pennsylvania Orthopedic Society and the Westmoreland County (Pa.) Medical Society.
Dr. Lauro discussed the history of Laurel Surgical Center in an interview with Becker’s ASC Review. The center’s history illustrates both the advantages of challenges of operating independently, he said. Initially, it took several attempts to assemble the right group of surgeon-investors. The planning process involved much “trial and error,” according to Dr. Lauro, partly because a development consultant offered incomplete information about initial costs. “Anyone considering a start-up should be aware of the considerable investment of time, energy and political capital involved,” he said.
Opening in 2004, the center initially handled 25 cases per week. But after more than a year of steady effort to attract more volume, the center achieved profitability. “It’s a matter of creative disruption when you ask physicians to change their practice patterns and referral habits,” said Dr. Lauro. “But, the upside is, if you have an attractive and efficient ASC, non-partner surgeons will want to bring patients there, and that leads to more revenue.”
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.
