Ambulatory Surgery Center Benefits

One of the primary advantages of ASCs is significant cost savings for patients. Research indicates that orthopedic procedures in ASCs can be 17% to 43% cheaper than in hospital outpatient departments (HOPDs)(3), with specific studies showing joint replacements costing 40% less and procedures like rotator cuff repair and knee arthroscopy over 50% less expensive than in hospitals. For instance, Medicare pays ASCs $8,222 for a total knee replacement compared to $12,088 for the same procedure in a hospital outpatient department, highlighting the financial benefit(4).

Efficiency is another key factor, with patients typically staying at most several hours in ASCs versus 24 or more hours in hospital outpatient departments for joint replacement. This shorter length of stay allows for same-day discharge, enabling patients to recover in the comfort of their own homes, which can reduce additional costs and administrative burdens and improve the overall experience. The streamlined processes in ASCs, such as dedicated surgical teams, orthopedic-specific anesthesia, and control over supplies, contribute to this efficiency, making ASCs particularly appealing for outpatient orthopedic surgeries.

Safety is a critical consideration, and the evidence leans toward ASCs offering a safer environment for shoulder and knee surgeries such as those offered by subspecialist orthopedic surgeon Dr. Thomas Obermeyer. A detailed comparison across the country shows that deep infection rates for joint replacements in ASCs are around 2%, significantly lower than the 4% rate in hospitals(5). This difference is attributed to ASCs’ specialized focus, strict infection prevention protocols following CDC recommendations, and the absence of the broader hospital environment, which can sometimes harbor higher infection risks. Hospital admissions due to complications following ambulatory surgery are also rare, further supporting the safety profile of ASCs(6).

The quality of care in ASCs is comparable to, and in many cases better than, that in hospitals for orthopedic procedures. The specialized nature of ASCs, with dedicated teams learning top shoulder and knee replacement surgeon Dr. Thomas Obermeyer’s preferred routines, cutting edge specialty-specific machinery (for arthroscopy and robotics), contributes to optimal outcomes, particularly for procedures like total shoulder arthroplasty and knee replacement.

Patient satisfaction is notably higher in ASCs, with reported rates reaching 92% according to surveys like the Press-Ganey Associates “Outpatient Pulse Report” from 2008(7). This high satisfaction is driven by several factors, including the ability to return home the same day, recover in a familiar environment, and avoid the constant noise and discomfort associated with hospital stays(8). Patients appreciate the personalized care, closer staff-to-patient ratios, and the comfort of their own beds, food, and loved ones, which can significantly enhance the recovery experience. This is particularly relevant for shoulder and knee surgeries, where post-operative comfort can impact overall satisfaction(9).

The trend toward ASCs for orthopedic surgeries is accelerating, with significant growth projected. Specific data shows a 293% increase in outpatient knee replacements from 2019 to 2023, with projections that 68% of orthopedic procedures will be performed in ASCs by the mid-2020s. Medicare (CMS) has expanded coverage, adding procedures like total shoulder arthroplasty to the ASC payable list for 2024, benefiting Medicare beneficiaries with lower-cost options(10). This regulatory support, combined with the appeal to patients, surgeons, and payers, underscores the growing acceptance of ASCs.