Sustaining market and revenue growth is a challenge facing many Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) and Hospital Outpatient Departments (HOPDs) today. Like all businesses, ASCs and HOPDs have a distinct life cycle. After five or so years in business, most experience a maturing or reduction in revenue growth...read more

Since being elected president in November, Barack Obama has made it very clear that he intends to move quickly to address his top priorities, including healthcare reform. During the campaign Obama said reducing healthcare costs and expanding coverage would be among his top priorities if he were elected. But with the ongoing economic and financial crisis, some experts are questioning whether Obama will be able to achieve...read more

Passionate debate continues in medical staff lounges across the country over the merits of leasing vs. owning. This important decision is impacted by economic conditions, demographic changes within a community, individual risk tolerance, financial history and future practice expectations. Sales and leaseback options provide a way to protect...read more

On July 25, 2008, the Office of Inspector General (OIG) of the Department of Health and Human Services posted a favorable Advisory Opinion (08-08) regarding the development and operation of an ambulatory surgical center (ASC) owned jointly by a Hospital and a group of Surgeons. The OIG concluded that it would not impose sanctions under the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute notwithstanding the fact that the Arrangement...read more

Joint ventures are the fastest growing partnership models in outpatient surgery delivery today because they allow physicians to gain control of their patient outcomes and personal income, while the hospital increases market share, solidifies physician relationships and enhances clinical outcomes. The end benefits are obvious, but the path to realization is often not as clear...read more