Report shows ASCs’ contribution to health reform goals
The results of a study on the growth of ambulatory facilities by KNG Health Consulting show the positive impact ASCs have toward health reform goals, the ASC Association reports.
The 79-page study, titled An Analysis of Recent Growth of Ambulatory Surgical Centers, was done to assess the factors that have contributed to the rise in number of ASCs. Some findings in the report, which was done for the ASC Coalition, found that ASCs are an essential Medicare provider, that 70% of growth from 2001 to 2007 can be attributed to patients moving procedures from hospital outpatient departments to the ambulatory setting, as well as several other factors. The ASC Association report tied the findings to the need for low-cost, efficient surgical services that could be the part of any healthcare reform measures.
Read the full report here (PDF).
Sebelius releases $9 million in Recovery Act funding to improve care in ASCs
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius on Nov. 10 announced the availability of $9 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding for state survey agencies in 43 states to boost surveys in ASCs and outpatient facilities.
The release of funding is a measure to reduce the threat of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), an ongoing issue that kills about 100,000 patients and accounts for up to $30 billion in additional costs each year. The 43 states drawing from the additional funding will survey about 1,300 ASCs, or about one-third of the more than 3,800 non-accredited ASCs nationwide, during the next 12 months.
Read more about the program here.
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