Anesthesia Providers Pose Challenges for the ASC Market

The increasing demand for and rising costs associated with anesthesia services is having an impact on health systems and organizations – including ASCs – as declining federal and commercial reimbursement challenge the market. In addition, shortages in anesthesia providers are starting to change the landscape. In a recent article, VMG Health points out the challenges that independent groups face as they balance all stakeholders.

“Going forward, health systems, ASCs and anesthesia partners may need to consider alternative partnerships including acquiring the practice, negotiating a new professional services agreement or amending an existing one, and/or considering recruitment assistance,” notes the article published June 15 and titled “Understanding & Solving the New Reality for Anesthesia Services.” “Regardless of the avenue, the anesthesia practice will likely require some sort of direct support (e.g., through revenue guarantees or subsidy arrangements) to ensure they are able to recruit and retain providers.”

With rising costs reflected in all types of OR staffing, this is now an additional area of concern as OR leaders navigate the post-pandemic economic waters. Anesthesia providers are a vital part of the ASC team, and the fluctuations in salaries and availability have become a front-and-center concern as OR owners and managers grapple with the challenges this staffing poses. OSM