Surgery Centers – The Safest Way To Get Your Procedure Done

Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASC) are going through significant growth. In fact about 3 out of 4 procedures in the US are performed in an ASC. The advances in medical care are driving this trend. Studies have shown that early mobility and movement after surgery improves healing. For example, patients used to spend a few days in the hospital for knee replacement only about 20 years ago, and now you are asked to walk as soon as you wake up from your anesthesia. Spine and back procedures have been revolutionized because of minimally invasive surgical techniques as well. This has been great news for patients who are able to get home the day of the procedure and can recuperate with their families in familiar surroundings, and away from the risk of hospital acquired infections.

 

Novel Techniques & Technological Advancements

Though novel techniques and technological advancements have made it possible to perform these procedures in an ASC, ease of scheduling and predictable start times for procedures has caused doctors to prefer the ASC setting as well. Since hospitals have complex procedures for admitted patients, many times with multiple surgical specialists being involved, it makes sense to move the more predictable and manageable cases to a more controlled environment such as an ASC, which is ideal for both patient and doctor.

Another advantage of ASC is that in the absence of sicker hospitalized patients, there is a decreased risk for infections. In fact, the ASC infection rate is one-tenth that of a hospital. This is all the more reason why we should prefer ASC whenever possible.

 

Problem Of Multiple Providers

One of the biggest problems with procedures and surgeries is that there are multiple providers involved. This becomes a real nightmare if you are using your insurance because though the surgeon performing the procedure is in your insurance network, the anesthesiologist may not be. This can lead to large surprise bills because your insurance company will refuse to pay for that part of the procedure. This is where “cash bundled” pricing is a life saver... you are told up front the total amount due, inclusive of all procedure related costs. The WoW Health app lists all procedures that can be performed in an ASC with all-inclusive bundled pricing. Regardless of your insurance status you should always compare the prices, because many times due to copays and deductibles, you will end up paying less for the same procedure if you elect to pay “cash.”

Conclusion

Let’s put an end to surprise medical bills, and demand full transparency so we can bring the best healthcare options to our communities! ASC brings that perfect mix of using the latest techniques, having a reduced risk of infections, and all with predictable scheduling....and add to that the cash bundled pricing. Now you the patient are in full control.