Cost savings are the most commonly recognized benefit of ASCs, but their value goes far beyond penny pinching.
For independently owned ASCs, the ability to articulate added value to patients can influence word-of-mouth marketing and enhance their overall experience. Insight into potential drivers for growth and enhanced KPIs may help you to optimize your facility, so here’s a key benefit to take advantage of:
A sustainable model with opportunities for growth:
The ASC model is positioned for a strong future. Five years ago, it was hard to imagine doing a total knee replacement and then sending a patient home five hours later. Now, the number of total joint replacements performed in ASCs is expected to grow 73% by 2026. Other complex surgeries are moving into the ambulatory space as well, including neurosurgical procedures that I never imagined being performed in a non-acute space. Spine and cardiovascular procedures are also expected to grow in coming years.
As such surgeries become more common, some ASCs are establishing relationships with hotels so patients can travel for surgeries and stay nearby. Some are also working with home care agencies, which allow patients to receive the care they need in a home setting. This helps ASCs in three ways: it can make the patient more comfortable, reduce liability, and put surgeons at ease since they know patients will be receiving the clinical care they need at home. Consider how such relationships might benefit your ASC and positively impact the patients you serve, especially if you anticipate future growth for your facility.
To learn more about strategies for surgery center success, visit www.cardinalhealth.com/SurgeryCenters.