As a new year begins, leaders within the ambulatory surgery center (ASC) sector are bullish on growth and focused on the innovations needed to meet rising demand. The needs and expectations of payers and patients are shaping the strategies that executives are pursuing, with the shift to more value-based reimbursement models and the aging population being major tailwinds propelling ASC growth. But headwinds also are blowing, including challenges in attracting and retaining staff, … [Read more...]
ASC Dealbook: $194M Deal Expands Sanford’s ASC Footprint; Flagship Acquires Multi-Specialty ASC
Flagship acquires Ohio ASC Flagship Healthcare Properties has acquired Central Ohio Surgical Institute, an ambulatory surgery center in New Albany, Ohio. The property was acquired via Flagship Healthcare Trust, the private real estate investment trust (REIT) of outpatient healthcare real estate firm Flagship. The firm did not disclose the acquisition price in the Oct. 28 announcement of the deal. Fifth Third Bank provided financing and Nick Myers of Zeustra represented the … [Read more...]
[Updated] CMS Finalizes 2.9% Medicare Payment Update for ASCs in 2025
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has finalized 2025 Medicare payment rates and quality reporting program updates for ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). ASC payment rates will increase 2.9% in CY 2025 for centers meeting relevant quality reporting requirements, according to a final rule that CMS issued Friday. The rule received backlash from industry stakeholders. “This final rule is a step sideways in a time when millions of Medicare beneficiaries need CMS to advance … [Read more...]