Study finds fewer postop adverse events in ASCs vs HOPDs

Editor's Note

Patients having outpatient surgery in ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) versus hospital outpatient departments (HOPDs) are less likely to be admitted to a hospital or visit an emergency department a short time after surgery, this study finds.

The study is the first to provide causal evidence on ASC quality, which is central to understanding the potential welfare gains of providing a greater share of services in ASCs, the researchers say.

Future research should continue to measure the effect of competition with ASCs on hospital finances and the quality and scope of care that hospitals provide. Similarly, healthcare policies should consider the more efficient, higher quality care provided in ASCs and the socially valued services provided by hospitals, the researchers note.