Becker’s Healthcare -- Ambulatory Surgery Centers Podcast

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Sarah Carson, Administrator, Ascentist ASC Merriam, LLC. Sarah discusses her center’s rapid growth since opening during COVID, their strong focus on pediatric care, and future plans to expand services through additional locations and increased pain management offerings.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Omkar Baxi, Orthopedic Hand Surgeon at Mid Atlantic Permanente Medical Group. Dr. Baxi discusses the evolving role of ASCs, the promise of AI in clinical workflows, and how financial transparency and patient engagement are reshaping orthopedic care delivery.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Vinay Belamkar, CEO of Apollo Pain Center. Dr. Belamkar shares his insights on the challenges of chronic pain care, staffing in a competitive market, the evolving role of ASCs, and how AI and value-based care models are shaping the future of independent practices.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Levi Scheppers, CEO, Sequel Ortho, and Jason Ficken, Managing Partner, Quadriga Partners. They discuss how cultural alignment, physician-led decision making, and a long-term growth strategy are redefining private equity partnerships in musculoskeletal care.This episode is sponsored by Quadriga Partners.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features John Russell, Director, Area Operations, Sutter Health System Office. John discusses strategies to improve patient access, optimize surgery center utilization, expand hours of operation, and support sustainable growth in response to rising demand across the system.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Sean Gipson, CEO of Remedy Surgery Centers. He shares insights on payer market disruption, workforce recruitment strategies, ASC growth in orthopedics, and the transformative role of AI in operations and billing.

In this episode, Dr. Andrew Fanous, Section Chief of Neurosurgery at Inova Alexandria Hospital, shares how emerging technologies like AI, robotics, augmented reality, and endoscopy are improving precision, reducing complications, and advancing outpatient spine surgery.

In this episode, Caleb Ashmore, PT, DPT, Orthopedic Rehabilitation Services Supervisor at Harris Health, shares how his team is evolving orthopedic care through evidence-based approaches, telehealth, and novel research. He also discusses the importance of meeting patients where they are—socially and economically—to deliver accessible, whole-person care in a safety-net system.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Alyson Engle, Interventional Pain Physician. Dr. Engle shares her perspective on shifting payer dynamics, workforce engagement, the growing role of AI, and how collaborative, patient-centered care models are reshaping independent practice and outpatient pain management.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Daniel Choi, Orthopedic Spine Surgeon and Owner, Spine Medicine and Surgery of Long Island. Dr. Choi shares how his independent practice is thriving amid industry consolidation, the critical role ASCs play in spine care, and how AI and independent dispute resolution are transforming operational and financial efficiency.

In this episode, Andrew Lovewell, CEO of Columbia Orthopaedic Group, shares his perspective on the evolving role of AI in healthcare, market consolidation, and how his organization is expanding services and market share. He discusses the importance of collaboration, practical innovation, and staying grounded in patient-centered, high-value care.

In this episode, Emma Gimmel, Director of Nursing at Manhattan Endoscopy Center, shares insights on the evolution of ASCs, the expansion into new specialties, and how outpatient care can play a pivotal role in building a more affordable, resilient healthcare system. She also discusses upcoming regulatory changes and how the center is preparing for future growth.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Robert S. Bray, Founding Director, DISC Sports & Spine Center. Dr. Bray shares insights on the accelerating shift toward outpatient spine care, the rise of global payment models, the role of AI across healthcare operations, and the importance of creating sustainable pathways for the next generation of surgeons.

In this episode, Nyleen Flores, Administrator & COO of Lake Oconee Orthopedics, shares key insights on the future of orthopedic care, including digital transformation, ASC trends, and expanding access to innovative procedures. She also highlights the importance of leadership in navigating operational challenges and creating lasting change in 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 Dr. Earl Kilbride, Orthopedic Surgeon, Austin Orthopedic Institute. He discusses workforce retention through culture-building, the growth and permanence of ASCs, and how his team forms direct partnerships with employers while exploring high-acuity cases and innovative procedures like peripheral neuromodulation.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Lee Anne Carlisle, Medical Director of UMA Anesthesia, University Health Systems. She shares how her team tackled anesthesia shortages through a CRNA-focused staffing model, improved patient throughput and pain management, and enhanced efficiency with regional anesthesia programs.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Jack Dillon, CEO, Anesthesia Practice Consultants. He discusses anesthesia staffing challenges, evolving surgical schedules, and how outpatient growth and cross-specialty technologies are shaping the future of care delivery.

This episode features Elaine Dunn, Chief Administrative Officer, and Jessica Thurston, Vice President of Client Development at nimble solutions. They share how ambulatory surgery centers can improve revenue integrity through stronger documentation, analytics, and strategic payer and technology partnerships.This episode is sponsored by nimble solutions.

In this episode, Tammy Smittle, CEO of Stonegate Surgery Center, discusses the shift of higher acuity procedures to ASCs, direct partnerships with employers, and rising hospital investment in outpatient settings. She also highlights upcoming regulatory changes and her balanced approach to growth through physician recruitment, innovation, and strong internal relationships.

In this episode, Jennifer Friend, Chief Executive Officer and Owner at Friend Surgical Solutions, shares insights on key trends in ambulatory surgery centers including shifting procedure sites, AI-driven efficiencies and private equity’s evolving role. She also discusses the financial realities facing ASCs and offers strategies for sustainable growth and care access in both urban and rural settings.

In this episode, Michael Gale, Administrative Director at Sentara Obici Ambulatory Surgical Center shares insights on the migration of higher acuity cases to ASCs, obstacles posed by certificate of need laws, and the importance of tailored patient care in today’s evolving ambulatory landscape.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Joseph Lamplot, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon & Sports Medicine Specialist, Endeavor Health Orthopaedic & Spine Institute. Dr. Lamplot discusses consolidation in health systems, how his organization is navigating staffing pressures, the shift toward outpatient care, and the impact of AI and digital tools on efficiency and patient engagement.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Izzy Lieberman, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Texas Back Institute. Dr. Lieberman discusses the evolving role of spine care, challenges with social media in surgery, workforce trends, and the promise of data and AI in improving outcomes for patients.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Nikhil Shetty, COO of Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists. Dr. Shetty shares insights on the shift to outpatient care, staffing strategies, the expanding role of ASCs, and the promise of AI in streamlining clinical and administrative workflows.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Mahoua Ray, CEO and Medical Director, Kansas Surgery Center. She discusses key trends including the migration of procedures to ASCs, managing staffing shortages, and improving patient communication around cost and coverage.

This episode features Dr. Robert E. Mayle, a fellowship trained, board-certified orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in hip and knee replacement and practices out of California Pacific Orthopaedics. Dr. Mayle shares how his team built a high-efficiency outpatient joint replacement program by adopting data-driven technologies, fostering a culture of transparency, and continuously refining clinical and operational workflows.This episode is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Pamela Mehta, Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon and CMO of The Good Feet Store. Dr. Mehta shares her journey in launching a cash-based orthopedic practice, discusses the shift toward outpatient care, and explains how financial transparency drives patient trust, loyalty, and improved clinical experience.This episode is brought to you by CareCredit.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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

M Craig McMains, MD, Spine Surgeon at OrthoIndy, specializing in minimally invasive and complex spine procedures, discusses the benefits of a minimally invasive approach and its impact on patient outcomes. He shares insights into current trends in physician reimbursement, the expansion of ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), and how AI tools and data are shaping the field. Dr. McMains also emphasizes a patient-focused philosophy while highlighting efforts towards cost reduction and growth in spine care.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Claude Royster, Vice President and General Manager of Wellness at CareCredit. Claude shares how CareCredit credit card can help practices improve financial transparency, reduce administrative burden, and empower patients with a flexible payment option that can support access to timely, high-quality care.This episode is brought to you by CareCredit. 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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Ira Kornbluth, President, Clearway Pain Solutions. He shares insights on building a successful, scalable practice, embracing technology like ambient dictation, and advancing interventional pain management as a key player in the shift toward outpatient care and opioid stewardship.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Zeeshan Tayeb, Medical Director, Pain Specialists of Cincinnati. Dr. Tayeb shares insights on the evolution of pain and orthopedic care, the strategic use of AI and outsourcing, and the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration to improve outcomes, efficiency, and holistic patient care.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Ahmar Qasim, Area Vice President at Veradigm. He shares how MSK practices can unlock financial performance by leveraging technology, refining revenue cycle management, and cautiously integrating AI tools like scribing and coding into operations.This episode is sponsored by Veradigm.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Ramis Gheith, Chief Medical Officer, DxTx Pain and Spine. Dr. Gheith shares how physician-owned ASCs are reshaping care delivery, highlights the transformative role of AI in spinal therapies and informed consent, and emphasizes the power of mission-driven culture in attracting top healthcare talent.

In this episode, Dr. Shirin Towfigh, Hernia and Laparoscopic Surgery Specialist at Beverly Hills Hernia Center, shares insights on advancing robotic surgery in ASCs, partnering with hospitals to scale care, and what it takes to build and sustain a top-ranked surgical center. She also offers advice for physicians considering ASC ownership and leadership.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Christopher Nanson, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon, Oregon Surgical Institute. Dr. Nanson discusses the rapid growth of outpatient joint replacements, the importance of clinical autonomy amid consolidation, and how creative bundled payment strategies are improving care access, staff satisfaction, and employer partnerships.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Michael Bottros, Clinical Operations Chief and Medical Director for Pain Services, Department of Anesthesiology, Keck School of Medicine of USC. He shares key trends in non-opioid pain management, the shift toward curative procedures, and how innovation, workforce investment, and care path efficiency are shaping the future of outpatient spine and orthopedic care.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Shooa Mohammadi, Practice Manager at Northwest Suburban Pain Associates. Shooa shares insights on rising insurance influence, the growth of regenerative medicine, and strategies for workforce retention—all while emphasizing the importance of timely, patient-centered care.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Brett Shore, President & CEO at Shore Orthopedics and Orthopaedic Surgeon, DISC Sports and Spine Center. He discusses the shift of orthopedic procedures to outpatient settings, strategic payer partnerships, and the evolving importance of anesthesia care and Medicare considerations in ASC operations.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Tammy Smittle, Group CEO at SCA Health. Tammy shares insights on rising case acuity in ASCs, the importance of workplace culture in staffing, and how partnerships with health systems are shaping the future of orthopedic and spine care.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Aman Magoon, Co-founder and Chief of Product at Adonis. Aman shares how AI and automation are transforming revenue cycle workflows for ASCs, reducing administrative burden, and helping teams proactively resolve payer and compliance challenges.This episode is sponsored by Adonis.

This episode features Reid Zeising, CEO of Gain Servicing, as he discusses the hidden challenges in personal injury billing, the damaging impact of “medical sludge,” and how smarter revenue cycle strategies combined with technology can restore access and fairness in care delivery. He also unpacks key legislative developments and why true reform must go beyond surface-level change.This episode is sponsored by Gain Servicing.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Meredith Warf, CPA, DPT Chief Executive Officer, Mississippi Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center, US Orthopaedic Partners. Meredith discusses how her team is using AI and digital platforms to streamline patient access, enhance staff efficiency, and elevate the orthopedic care experience through smarter, scalable technology solutions.This episode is sponsored by Relatient.

This episode recorded live at the Becker's 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Brett Spark, Co-Founder and President, Aroris. Brett shares insights on how independent practices can manage payer contract complexity, leverage digital tools, and protect revenue in an era of healthcare consolidation.This episode is sponsored by Aroris.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Scott Hannum, Partner at Emerge Ortho and President and Medical Director of Brunswick Surgery Center. Dr. Hannum shares insights on the shift of orthopedic procedures to outpatient settings, challenges with ASC regulations and reimbursement, and the role of technology and independent partnerships in driving future growth.

Ellington Jones, DrPH, MHA, MBA, FACHE, Chief Administrative Officer of Surgical Specialties at UC San Diego Health, joins the podcast to discuss the expanding services at UCSD Health and the key responsibilities within his leadership role. He shares insights on navigating reimbursement challenges, improving access to care, and the importance of having a clear, strategic plan for AI implementation. Jones also highlights the ongoing growth efforts at UC San Diego Health and how innovation is shaping the organization’s future.

In this episode, Marjorie Reiter, Administrator and CEO at the Surgery Center of Central New Jersey, shares her unconventional career journey, key trends affecting ASCs, and the leadership philosophy that guided a successful financial turnaround. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration, workforce development, and putting patients first in every decision.

In this episode, Alfonso del Granado, Market Administrator for North Cypress Surgery Ventures, shares insights on trends shaping the ASC space, from minimally invasive spine procedures to key legislative shifts impacting growth, reimbursement, and site neutrality.

Eric Witte, DPT, MBA, Chief Operating Officer at Genesis Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, joins the podcast to share insights into overcoming recruitment challenges and improving health outcomes in the communities they serve. He discusses key areas of operational improvement and emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making, stating, “It’s better to look uniformed than be uninformed.”

In this episode, Dr. H. Kurtis Biggs, founder of the Joint Replacement Institute in Naples, FL, shares his approach to minimizing infection and recovery time in joint replacements, explains the financial pressures facing independent surgeons, and offers advice for future healthcare leaders.

In this episode, Alexandra Hogue, Director of Operations at Orbis Surgery Center in Houston, shares insights on ASC growth, navigating reimbursement changes, and how AI and automation are shaping the future of outpatient care. She also discusses the center’s expansion and the challenges facing Texas ASCs today.