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QUALITY CARE IN AN EFFICIENT SETTING

With the current influx of physicians flocking to out-patient surgery centers, it appears that ASCs could be deemed the new health care model for the future, and the benefits of this trend are numerous.

The physicians and administrators who operate in this type of venue point to a higher level of patient care and personal attention, as a result of skilled teams and trained staff. Cindy Ladner, Manager of the Shawnee Mission Surgery Center in Shawnee Mission, Kansas, believes that the number one benefit of an ASC most often cited by physicians and patients alike is efficiency.

“We strive to maintain the same quality as our hospital” states Ladner. “Some of the benefits of our surgery center include a stream-lined admissions process, less traffic areas, and a more comfortable setting,” she notes. “Overall, it is more convenient and efficient.”

Ladner further points out that surgeons can accomplish significantly more procedures than would normally be practical in a hospital. This is a result of a cooperative staff that is focused on a quick turnaround. In addition to utilizing facilities that can be tailormade for their surgical specialties, lengthy wait times between procedures are eliminated. Surgeons enjoy the flexibility they have in setting standards and employing qualified staff at ASCs, and are proud to boast low infection rates and few post-operative complications. Proponents of ASCs believe that the overall efficiency and productivity of these centers will continue to improve, raising the bar on new standards in the healthcare industry.

COMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT

Patient satisfaction is high, based on lower costs, a more comfortable medical environment, as well as enhanced personal attention. Many patients quote faster recovery times, and enjoy their recuperation surrounded by family and friends.



Cost is a significant motivator for patients contemplating an elective surgical procedure. Surgeries performed in an ASC may save a patient as much as 61 percent of the original cost of a hospital-based procedure. Some of the reductions in cost are based on the fact that there is no overnight stay required after these procedures, as well as additional factors that include insurance coverage for a larger variety of procedures.

Even those patients covered by Medicare could see significant savings in the form of less co-insurance payments. Studies have also shown that the Medicare program itself has seen substantial savings associated with the use of ASCs, as well as private insurance companies. This trickle down effect also benefits employers.

Patients seem to prefer the “userfriendly” environment of an ASC. With easy access to the facility, parking, and shorter waiting times, it can be less stressful and easier to navigate for some patients.

Keith Chambers, Vice-President of Operations for HCA-Midwest, oversees and plans strategic initiatives for HCA-Midwest’s Kansas City area ASCs.

“In an Ambulatory Surgery Center, you can basically walk through the door and you are right there at the admitting desk,” Chambers points out. “In addition, when I think of a hospital, I think that is where only sick people go, whereas in an ASC the mind-set shifts.”

Convenience is an important factor to be considered. With less administrative paperwork, “red-tape” and time lost from work, ASC’s can not only provide a less intimidating setting than a hospital, but allow the patient to recover surrounded by family and friends.

«March 2008 Edition