Collaborations key in ASC shift

Editor's Note

Hospitals that cling to higher hospital outpatient department reimbursements and resist ASC development could be left behind as payers are applying pressure to move these cases to more affordable settings, according to insights highlighted in a December 11 news story in Becker’s ASC review.

One expert advised collaboration within organizations to assess this reality and develop strategies to address it, which could include moving people, moving services, and moving equipment.

A broader look at who to involve in these decisions was also discussed in the article.

For example, they suggested including insights from the management company, the hospital, and the physicians who are going to be part of a joint partnership, as well as with payers. It was noted that collaboration among physicians, as well as the management company bringing expertise to reduce costs and get better contracts, and with hospitals in that market that have access to patients and physicians and contracts can be a valuable approach to explore.