Becker’s Healthcare -- Ambulatory Surgery Centers Podcast

In this episode, Vijay Bachani, President and Chief Growth Officer of New York Bariatric Group, discusses ASC trends, expansion opportunities, and how partnerships, negotiation leverage, and high BMI capabilities position his organization for strong growth in the year ahead.

In this episode, Kathleen Hickman, RN, BSN, MS, CASC, Administrator and Clinical Director of Dutchess Ambulatory Surgical Center, shares insights on ASC growth through higher acuity cases, the impact of new CMS codes, and how innovation and culture are shaping the future of surgical care.

In this episode, Dr. Mario Göessl, Director of Interventional Cardiology Fellowships and Transcatheter Valve Therapies at Allina Health Minneapolis Heart Institute, discusses the growth of structural heart disease interventions, the integration of AI in clinical practice, and the shift toward value-based, patient-centered care.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Greg Schooler, Chief Operating Officer, Cincinnati GI, CGI Anesthesia Associates, Anderson Endoscopy Center, LLC. He shares insights on maintaining ASC independence, leveraging AI to enhance efficiency and care quality, and the importance of strong teams in driving long-term success.

This episode features Adam Hornback, BSN, RN, Chief Operating Officer of Hinkapin Health and Administrator of North Texas Team Care Surgery Center. He discusses transparent pricing, direct care models, and how ASCs can prepare for growth as more procedures shift from hospitals to outpatient settings.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Melissa Rice, Administrator, Loyola Ambulatory Surgery Center - a Member of Trinity Health. She shares insights on ASC market growth, the impact of payer and Medicare shifts, and how technology and collaboration are shaping the future of outpatient care.

In this episode, Myra Ray, MSN, RN, Manager of Surgical Services at Franciscan Healthcare, discusses rapid growth in surgical volumes, innovative recruitment and scholarship strategies to address staffing challenges, and how community support drives success in rural healthcare settings.

On this episode, EJ Ledesma, Chief Executive Officer of 360 Orthopedics, joins the podcast to discuss AI advancements and growing the revenue base in specialty practice, the value of partnerships, and his approach to driving growth.

This episode was recorded live during Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs and features Claude Royster, Senior VP & GM of Health & Wellness at CareCredit and Cathy McDowell, President & CEO of KZA. Both Claude and Cathy discuss how deeper technology integration, multi-source financing, and strong industry partnerships can help ASC leaders streamline operations, reduce staff burden, and improve patient financial experiences.Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual advisors with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony”) makes no representations or warranties regarding this content and accepts no liability for any loss or harm arising from the use of the information provided. All statements and opinions in the podcast are the sole opinions of the guest.. Receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Sean Gipson, CEO, Remedy Surgery Centers. He discusses key market trends driving ASC growth, the role of AI and technology in improving efficiency and payer negotiations, and the importance of collaboration across the healthcare landscape.

This episode was recorded live during Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs and features Claude Royster, Senior VP & GM of Health & Wellness at CareCredit and Cathy McDowell, President & CEO of KZA. Both Claude and Cathy share insights on how ambulatory surgery centers can leverage digital solutions, financing tools, and patient-focused payment options to streamline operations and enhance access to help strengthen preparedness for future growth.Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual advisors with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony”) makes no representations or warranties regarding this content and accepts no liability for any loss or harm arising from the use of the information provided. All statements and opinions in the podcast are the sole opinions of the guest.. Receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode recorded live at the 10th Annual Health IT + Digital Health + RCM Annual Meeting features George Cybulski, MD MBA, AI clinical leader and Chief of Neurosurgery at Humboldt Park Health. He discusses the growth of outpatient spine surgery, the role of AI in connecting care teams and streamlining workflows, and the importance of collaboration between providers and vendors to enhance patient care and ASC efficiency.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Megan Friedman, DO, Chair and Medical Director at Pacific Coast Anesthesia. She shares insights on how technology, data-driven scheduling, and closer collaboration between anesthesia teams and ASC leadership are transforming efficiency, staffing, and patient care in today’s rapidly growing ASC market.

In this episode, Dr. Earl Kilbride, orthopedic surgeon at Austin Orthopedic Institute, discusses major trends shaping healthcare and ASCs, including consolidation, reimbursement challenges, and the role of AI. He also shares insights on the growing shift toward outpatient procedures and how independent practices can thrive in a changing landscape.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Brett Spark, President and Co-Founder, Aroris Health. He shares insights on improving payer negotiations, identifying contract blind spots, and building a data-driven approach to reimbursement success.This episode is sponsored by Aroris Health.

In this episode, Dr. Brian Nwannunu, Orthopaedic Surgeon at Texas Joint Institute, shares insights on how AI, robotics, and digital health tools are transforming orthopedic surgery. He discusses the rise of outpatient procedures, smart operating rooms, and how technology is enhancing patient connection and surgical precision.

This episode features John Polikandriotis, CEO of South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, who shares how reimagining revenue cycle management as both a shield and a sword can drive organizational growth. He discusses the power of data transparency, cross-department collaboration, and patient-centered access models in building a more agile, innovative, and financially strong healthcare organization.This episode is sponsored by NextGen Healthcare.

In this episode, Jimmy Dascani, Senior Director of Healthcare Administrator Relations at Arthrex, and Jonathan Kling, RN, COO of Naples Comprehensive Health discuss how strategic partnerships, cutting-edge technology, and a focus on quality are transforming ambulatory surgery centers into high-performing, patient-centered facilities built for the future of healthcare.This episode is sponsored by Arthrex.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Helen M Lowenwirth, MBA, CASC, Administrator, East Side Endoscopy, LLC. She discusses the continued migration of procedures from hospitals to ASCs, the role of AI and technology in improving efficiency and documentation, and how collaboration among hospitals, vendors, and policymakers is driving greater access to patient care.

This episode features Dr. Susan Sorosky, Board-Certified Physiatrist and Chief Medical Officer at Desert Spine and Sports. She discusses the growing role of regenerative medicine, the impact of Medicare’s upcoming pre-authorization pilot, and how her fellowship program is shaping the next generation of interventional spine physicians.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Elisa Auguste, Administrator, Precision Care Surgery Center. She discusses key trends driving ASC growth, from technology integration and AI in coding to payer partnerships and workforce investment, emphasizing how thoughtful strategy and empowered teams are shaping the future of outpatient surgery.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Azizza Dorsey, Chief Operating Officer, APMG. She discusses the rapid expansion of the ASC market, the impact of technology and private equity, and why aligning goals and embracing digital transformation are key to long-term success.

In this episode, John Mahoney, Chief Product Officer at Pristine Surgical, shares how single-use surgical technology is transforming operating room efficiency, reducing costs, and improving sustainability. He discusses how health systems can rethink workflows, drive staff productivity, and embrace innovation responsibly.This episode is sponsored by Pristine Surgical.

This episode—recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs event—features Dr. Ken Grubbs, Executive Vice President, Accreditation and Certification Operations, and Chief Nursing Officer, Joint Commission. He discusses how Accreditation 360 is shaping the future of healthcare quality, reducing administrative burden, and promoting collaboration to improve patient outcomes.This episode is sponsored by Joint Commission.

In this episode, Jacob Rodman, Chief Executive Officer of Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic, discusses how his team improved efficiency by bringing anesthesia services in-house, strategies for navigating Medicare uncertainty, and the growing role of AI in clinical and ASC operations. He also shares his vision for leadership development and future growth in outpatient neurosurgical care.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Waleed Nasr, Co-founder and CEO, Medely. He discusses how AI and workforce orchestration are transforming healthcare staffing, helping ASCs and hospitals optimize scheduling, improve retention, and deliver better patient care.This episode is sponsored by Medely.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Andy Colbert, Senior Managing Director, Ziegler. He shares key strategies for physician groups evaluating partnerships, including how to align culture, strengthen leadership, and prepare their organization for sustainable growth and long-term success.This episode is sponsored by Ziegler.

In this episode, Michelle Huntsman, Partner at Holland and Knight, discusses how ambulatory surgery centers can adapt to state and federal regulatory changes. She shares insights on bridging reimbursement gaps, managing staffing challenges, and advancing access to affordable outpatient care.This episode is sponsored by Holland & Knight.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Todd Currier, CASC, CPA, FACMPE, CEO/Administrator at Bend Surgery Center. He discusses the rapid evolution of the ASC industry, the impact of AI and robotics on operations, and the importance of leadership engagement and advocacy to sustain growth and quality care.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Carrie Marut, Administrator, Mentor Surgery Center. She shares insights on patient-driven ASC growth, the benefits of EHR adoption, and the importance of collaboration with hospitals and vendors to improve efficiency and patient experience.

In this episode, Leslie Jebson, Administrator of the Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Network at Prisma Health, shares insights on sustainable growth, AI integration in scheduling and administrative workflows, the future of ambulatory care, and more.

In this episode, Patrick Magallanes, President and CEO of Steindler Orthopedics, joins the podcast to discuss the organization’s history, the launch of its new ASC, and how strategic partnerships and a focus on patient experience are shaping its future growth.Learn more about shaping the future of your ASC here: http://bit.ly/4qdWN0g

In this episode, Kelly Williby of McKesson Medical-Surgical and Jeff Gerstner of DinamicOR join the podcast to discuss how technology and strong partnerships are streamlining OR workflows, improving safety, and helping surgery centers overcome staffing and efficiency challenges.This episode is sponsored by McKesson Medical-Surgical.

In this episode, Saad Ehtisham, DHA, FACHE, President and CEO of Atlantic Health, joins the Becker’s Healthcare Podcast to share his journey from bedside nurse to system leader. He discusses the organization’s focus on workforce development, population health, research, and creating a culture that empowers teams to thrive while driving quality and innovation.

In this episode, Dr. Asif Ilyas, Orthopaedic Surgeon and President of the Rothman Opioid Foundation, shares strategies to reduce opioid reliance while ensuring effective pain management. He discusses multimodal approaches, patient education, and the ongoing challenges of fentanyl and overdose deaths.

In this episode, Laurie Noble, Administrator of The Endo Center at Voorhees, shares insights on ASC growth, the role of AI in improving patient outcomes, and how her team is adapting to changing payer trends and a growing younger patient population.

Amanda Ryan, DO, MBA, Chief Executive Officer and Physician Owner at Advanced ASC of Carlsbad New Mexico, joins the podcast to discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding reimbursements in the ASC space. She shares her focus on expanding services, creating new partnerships, and driving growth to strengthen her organization’s impact in the community.

Armen Voskeridjian, Director of Anesthesia Services at Jefferson Surgery Center at The Navy Yard, joins the podcast to share insights from his recent foot and ankle study, including key findings and implications for patient care. He also discusses breakthroughs in outpatient surgery, particularly around the use of narcotics, and highlights the trends he’s following that are shaping the future of the ASC space.

In this episode, Ashley Hilliard, MBA, MSN, RN, CPAN, Administrator of Piedmont Outpatient Surgery Center, shares insights on new ASC procedure codes, reimbursement challenges, and the impact of North Carolina’s changing certificate of need laws on future growth.

Paula Ferrada, MD, FACS, FCCM, MAMSE, Chair of the Department of Surgery at Inova Fairfax Medical Campus (IFMC), Professor of Medical Education at the University of Virginia, Division and System Chief of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, and Medical Director of Perioperative Services at IFMC, highlights her focus on driving long-term success. She emphasizes viewing failure as a learning opportunity, building a culture of trust, and the importance of fostering community within an organization.

In this episode, Mark Mayo, CASC, Administrator at Associated Surgical Center, discusses the top challenges and opportunities for ASCs today. He shares insights on physician independence, regulatory changes, and how outpatient surgery centers can prepare for growth in a shifting healthcare landscape.

In this episode, Dr. Xiaofei Zhou, Associate Program Director of Neurosurgery at University Hospitals, discusses her journey into endoscopic spine surgery, her priorities for advancing education and patient care, and how collaboration and innovation are shaping the future of minimally invasive spine procedures.

Kathy Meccia, RNBC, BSN, CNOR, CRCST, Nurse Administrator at Lake George Surgery Center, shares her perspective on transitioning from hospital settings to ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). She offers practical tips for running a successful surgery practice and discusses projected growth for the center in the coming months.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. John Lucio, Regional Chief Medical Officer, SSM Health. He discusses supply chain challenges, payer dynamics, workforce strategies, and the growing role of AI, wearables, and outpatient surgery in shaping the future of healthcare delivery.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Bruce Feldman, Administrator, Eastern Orange Ambulatory Surgery Center. He shares insights on the shift of higher acuity cases to ASCs, innovative workforce recruitment and retention strategies, and how health systems and vendors are shaping the next chapter of outpatient care.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Alaa Abd-Elsayed, Medical Director, UW Health Pain Services. Dr. Abd-Elsayed discusses reimbursement challenges, workforce shortages, the rapid growth of outpatient care, and innovations such as minimally invasive procedures and enhanced perioperative pain management that improve outcomes and efficiency.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Omar Khokhar, Managing Partner, Illinois GastroHealth. Dr. Khokhar discusses the growing demand for GI care, strategies to navigate workforce shortages, the role of artificial intelligence in improving colonoscopy outcomes, and how financial transparency can strengthen trust between patients and providers.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Janet L. Carlson, Vice President of Ambulatory Operations, Commonwealth Pain & Spine. Janet shares insights on emerging trends in outpatient spine and orthopedic care, from smart implants and digital patient engagement to financial transparency and strategies for retaining top clinical talent.

This episode features Todd Currier, Administrator at Bend Surgery Center, sharing insights on key trends shaping the ASC industry, including mergers and acquisitions, expanding procedure types, and the growing role of technology and robotics in surgical care. Todd also discusses strategic growth plans and the ongoing need for advocacy in reimbursement policies.

This episode features Dr. Tan (Dan) Chen, Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at Geisinger, as he shares insights on advancing minimally invasive spine techniques, the promise of endoscopic surgery and systemic challenges facing rural healthcare. He also discusses emerging technologies in implant design, motion-preserving surgery and the potential role of AI in standardizing spine care.