Starting an ASC or OBL Business: Get It Right-Starting an ASC or OBL

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar sponsored by Sky and Corazon focused on advising entrepreneurs on starting ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) or office-based labs (OBLs). The session featured expert insights from various seasoned professionals including Aaron Armstrong from the Advanced Heart and Vein Center and Lyndon Box from West Valley Medical Center, among others. The discussion delved into market trends, operational challenges, and the clinical and financial facets critical to the success of an ASC or OBL.<br /><br />Key topics included the burgeoning shift towards outpatient services, which currently account for over 80% of surgeries, and the growing ASC market, driven by factors like aging populations and technological advances. A comparison was made between ASC operational models, such as physician-only ownership versus joint ventures with hospitals, highlighting the potential financial benefits and challenges.<br /><br />The speakers also discussed operational requirements, such as developing a robust business plan, understanding regulatory considerations, and employing experienced staff. Insights into the financial prospects of ASCs, including Medicare payment structures and negotiations with commercial payers, were shared.<br /><br />In the clinical context, selecting the right cases for ASCs and ensuring quality of care were emphasized. This includes adhering to established guidelines by Sky for patient and case selection, maintaining high-quality standards, and implementing continuous quality improvement processes.<br /><br />Finally, the importance of accreditation and peer review was underscored as essential for ensuring quality and compliance. Overall, the session painted a picture of ASCs as a growing field with significant investment opportunities but emphasized doing thorough groundwork to ensure success.

Keywords

ambulatory surgical centers

office-based labs

outpatient services

market trends

operational challenges

financial prospects

Medicare payment

quality of care

accreditation

investment opportunities

regulatory considerations