ASCs save total joint replacement patients 40 percent over their hospital counterparts, according to an American Council on Science and Health report.
Researchers presented their findings at AAOS 2019, March 12-16 in Las Vegas. They studied 252 patients, matched for an array of characteristics. Half of the patients underwent either a total hip or total knee replacement procedure at a hospital and half at an ASC.
The patients had similar outcomes and readmission rates.
Patients saved 40 percent in the ASC setting, dropping from $19,361 to $11,677. The costs included surgical fees, implants, staffing, medications and postoperative care. The outpatients also had a shorter length of stay (8 hours and 9 minutes in the ASC versus 23 hours and 24 minutes in the hospital).
The ACSH report noted that the poster did not include cost data on preoperative assessments or postdischarge care.
Note: ACSH receives funding from corporate entities.