As the ambulatory surgery center (ASC) industry heads deeper into 2026, many of the most consequential forces shaping its future are not the ones making headlines. Beyond the familiar debates over reimbursement, procedure migration and consolidation, a sometimes quieter set of dynamics is emerging – issues that are unfolding incrementally, often outside formal rulemaking or earnings calls, but with the potential to materially alter how ASCs operate, compete and grow. To surface these … [Read more...]
Why Data, Advocacy and Contract Discipline Will Define ASC Performance in 2026
Ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) are primed for growth, but this rising tide won’t lift all boats. Making the most of what promises to be a positive year for the sector will require disciplined planning, targeted investment, and a clear-eyed view of regulatory and reimbursement risk. This was the overarching message of a recent ASC News webinar focused on 2026 payment dynamics and growth strategies. “We’re going to grow, which is great; we just need to figure out how to do the … [Read more...]
‘The Technology Needs to Offer a Good User Experience’: Keys to Successful ASC AI Adoption
There’s no denying that artificial intelligence is influencing ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) by enhancing efficiency. And leaders are further exploring how AI can streamline tasks while building staff trust in the technology. The ongoing improvement of administrative tasks is important; however, these tools must be user-friendly to gain support. Dr. Greg Horner, a general partner at Seattle-based venture capital firm Untethered Ventures, noted that the number of administrative … [Read more...]
Anthem Policy Change Sparks Continued Opposition from ASC Stakeholders, Medical Groups
One of the largest health insurers in the nation is pushing a new out-of-network policy that could prove seriously challenging for ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). Starting Jan. 1, 2026, Anthem will penalize hospitals, surgery centers and other facilities whenever those facilities use out-of-network providers for patients covered under Anthem commercial plans. In other words, the insurer is putting financial pressure on facilities to use only in-network resources, except in certain … [Read more...]
‘The Current Policy Is Unfair’: Medicare Copay Fairness Act Gains Additional Support
The Medicare Beneficiary Copay Fairness Act is gaining momentum. Rep. Marc Veasey (D-Texas) has joined as one of the newest cosponsors of the Act. The bipartisan bill was introduced on April 24 and addresses a Medicare payment rule for ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), where Medicare Part B beneficiaries pay a standard 20% coinsurance for procedures at both ASCs and hospital outpatient departments (HOPDs). However, only HOPD copays are limited by the inpatient deductible, which is … [Read more...]
‘We Have a Great Story to Tell, But We Have to Tell It’: ASCA CEO Urges ASC Leaders to Step Up Advocacy
Although Medicare payment rates have not faced major cuts under the new administration so far, ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) continue to be underpaid compared to hospitals. That’s according to Bill Prentice, CEO of the Ambulatory Surgery Center Association (ASCA), who recently shared his regulatory outlook at the Arizona Ambulatory Surgery Center Association’s 2025 Annual Conference in Scottsdale, Arizona. “Medicare seems to be OK right now,” Prentice said at the conference. “But we still … [Read more...]