In November, Kaiser Permanente announced it would require specific modifiers to identify anesthesia providers for reimbursement under its Washington health plans, causing alarm for ambulatory surgery center (ASC) operators and stakeholders, many of whom are struggling amid a national anesthesiologist shortage. Additionally, the reimbursement rate for QZ services performed by Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) was to be reduced to 85% of the Physician Fee Schedule. QZ is a … [Read more...]
National Anesthesiologist Shortage: Causes, Solutions and Strategies for ASC Operators
The United States is currently experiencing a significant shortage of anesthesiologists, due to an aging workforce, increased demand for surgical procedures and burnout among existing practitioners. The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) has reported that the percentage of facilities with anesthesia staffing shortages has increased dramatically, from 35% in early 2020 to 78% in late 2022. Projections indicate that by 2036, the U.S. could face a shortfall of up to 86,000 … [Read more...]
NorthStar Anesthesia, EyeSouth Partners Expand Strategic Collaboration to Key Eye Care Centers
NorthStar Anesthesia and EyeSouth Partners recently announced an expansion of their partnership, bringing NorthStar's anesthesia services to five additional EyeSouth ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) across Cincinnati, Chicago and Atlanta. This move aims to enhance the quality of ophthalmic care in these regions, NorthStar executives told ASC News. “When we initially met with EyeSouth, they were in a very energetic state of growth and laying out their blueprint for national growth over … [Read more...]