Ascension Expands Reach with Acquisition of AmSurg
Photo: Morsa/Getty Images
Ascension, a Catholic nonprofit health system, has recently announced its acquisition of AmSurg and its network of 250 ambulatory surgery centers spread across 34 states. This strategic move is aimed at significantly expanding Ascension’s ability to deliver care in community-based settings.
Key Benefits of Ambulatory Surgery Centers
One of the main advantages of ambulatory surgery centers is the convenience they offer to patients. In addition, these centers provide a lower-cost alternative to traditional inpatient care. Specializing in areas such as gastroenterology, ophthalmology, and orthopedics, ambulatory surgery centers cater to a variety of medical needs.
Ascension stated that with this expansion, the health system is reinforcing its commitment to delivering care that is accessible, efficient, and responsive to patients’ preferences and evolving needs.
Continuation of Physician-Led Model
Under the acquisition, Ascension plans to uphold the AmSurg model of physician-led joint ventures and governance. This approach ensures that clinical leadership remains at the core of each center’s success, empowering physicians to shape the delivery of care in their respective communities.
Notably, Ascension has been streamlining its operations by selling off hospitals, with the recent sale of eight facilities in Illinois to Prime Healthcare. The acquisition of AmSurg aligns with Ascension’s strategy to optimize its operational footprint and reallocate resources to better align with evolving healthcare delivery trends.
Expanding ASC Market
The ambulatory surgical center market is experiencing growth, supported by advancements in AI and analytics. Research reports have highlighted that cataract ambulatory surgeries and orthopedics are leading revenue drivers in this sector.
Cleveland Clinic’s partnership with Regent Surgical aims to enhance cost-effective outpatient ASC procedures, while Tenet Healthcare’s collaboration with United Surgical Partners International has fueled growth in the ambulatory surgery space.
Ascension’s Vision for the Future
Ascension President Eduardo Conrado emphasized the healthcare landscape’s rapid evolution towards outpatient care. The acquisition of AmSurg aligns with Ascension’s mission to provide compassionate, personalized care to all individuals, especially those in need.
CEO Joe Impicciche echoed this sentiment, stating that the acquisition reflects Ascension’s commitment to expanding access to care that is affordable, local, and centered on the well-being of patients.
For inquiries, contact the writer at SMorse@himss.org
