Becker’s Healthcare -- Ambulatory Surgery Centers Podcast

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Dr. Michael Stuntz, Chief Medical Officer at Monterey Peninsula Surgery Center. Here, he discusses the increasing demand for outpatient surgery, strategies to improve patient experience, and the importance of financial transparency. He emphasizes the shift towards more efficient practices and local anesthesia, while maintaining a focus on patient satisfaction and cost-effective care. Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual business, financial, legal, tax, and/or other advisors with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony”) make no representations or warranties regarding this content and accept 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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Dr. Omar Khokhar, Partner at Illinois Gastro Health. Here, he shares insights on the growing challenges of maintaining a positive patient experience in ASCs, including the importance of embracing technology and ensuring financial transparency. He emphasizes the need for ongoing dialogue with payers to highlight the role of ASCs in providing preventative care. Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual business, financial, legal, tax, and/or other advisors with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony”) make no representations or warranties regarding this content and accept 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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Jeffrey Flynn, Administrator and COO of Gramercy Surgery Center. Here, he shares insights on the growing challenges in ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), particularly with increasing volume and value-based care. He discusses strategies for maintaining positive patient experiences and staying ahead in a shifting healthcare landscape. Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual business, financial, legal, tax, and/or other advisors with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony”) make no representations or warranties regarding this content and accept 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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode, recorded live at Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Dr. Jerald Garcia, CEO of Hawaii Institute for Pain and The Surgical Suites of Honolulu. Dr. Garcia shares strategies for overcoming staffing shortages, improving patient satisfaction, and fostering a mission-driven culture to enhance the ASC experience.

This episode, recorded live at Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Jacob Rodman, CEO of Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic. Jacob shares strategies for addressing ASC growth challenges, including staffing and anesthesia shortages, improving patient understanding of billing processes, and fostering a collaborative workplace culture.

In this episode, Kristopher Kitz, CEO of Wyatt Surgery Center, discusses the evolution of ambulatory surgery centers, the role of physician leadership, and the growing focus on specialties like spine, pain, and neurosurgery. He also shares insights on leveraging AI, enhancing consumer experiences, and navigating the challenges and opportunities of a startup ASC.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Scott Kulstad, CEO of St. Paul Eye Clinic. Here, he explores strategies for managing rising costs in healthcare and how the implementation of new AI technology helps to minimize errors, ultimately improving efficiency and patient outcomes.Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual business, financial, legal, tax, and/or other advisors with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony”) make no representations or warranties regarding this content and accept 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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Elaina Turner, ASC Administrator at Commonwealth Pain and Spine. Here, she discusses the importance of prioritizing staffing and fostering a positive environment for both patients and employees. Turner also emphasizes the value of guiding patients through every step of their procedure, including transparent communication about costs, to build trust and satisfaction. Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual business, financial, legal, tax, and/or other advisors with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony”) make no representations or warranties regarding this content and accept 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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Dr. Basil Besh, Founder of Precision SurgiCenter. Here, he discusses the transition of patients from inpatient to outpatient care and the role it plays in improving efficiency and outcomes. Dr. Besh also highlights the importance of maintaining open communication with patients to effectively manage their expectations and provide a seamless care experience.Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual business, financial, legal, tax, and/or other advisors with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony”) make no representations or warranties regarding this content and accept 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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

Dr. Marvin K. Smith and Dr. Daniel B. Chan, leading orthopedic surgeons, join Becker's Healthcare to discuss their journeys in Sports Medicine and the evolution of Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs). They delve into the impact of higher acuity procedures on ASCs, strategic collaborations, and exciting developments in the field. This episode is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson MedTech. To advance your ASC Learning Journey with Johnson & Johnson MedTech’s ASC Preceptorship Program, please email [email protected] episode is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson.

Recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, this episode features Michael Gale, Administrative Director, Sentara Obici Ambulatory Surgical Center. Gale discusses strategies for managing ASC growth, enhancing patient education, addressing financial challenges, and improving clinical outcomes in the evolving healthcare landscape.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Dr. Ken Rich, President of Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic. Here, he discusses strategies for enhancing the patient experience, the advantages of operating a smaller clinic that fosters a strong work environment for surgeons and staff, and how prioritizing staff translates to better patient care. Dr. Rich also emphasizes the importance of cost transparency in improving trust and satisfaction. Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual business, financial, legal, tax, and/or other advisors with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony”) make no representations or warranties regarding this content and accept 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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Dr. Rick Ngo, General Surgeon at Texas Hernia & Surgical Specialists. Here, he shares his approach to prioritizing the patient experience, from initial consultation through post-surgery care. Dr. Ngo also discusses the importance of providing individualized attention to each patient, even when managing a high volume of cases. Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual business, financial, legal, tax, and/or other advisors with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony”) make no representations or warranties regarding this content and accept 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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Nyleen Flores, Chief Administrative Officer at Lake Oconee Orthopedics. Here, she discusses strategies for ensuring patient safety in the outpatient setting, the importance of finding and retaining satisfied employees, and fostering a culture that values all roles equally. Flores highlights how this approach strengthens patient-provider relationships over time. Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual business, financial, legal, tax, and/or other advisors with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony”) make no representations or warranties regarding this content and accept 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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Tina Piotrowski, CEO of Copper Ridge Surgery Center. Here, she delves into the organizational challenges that arise when updating service lines and procedures, and how navigating these conflicts effectively can benefit operations. Piotrowski also emphasizes the role of clear communication in enhancing patient satisfaction and fostering a smoother healthcare experience.

In this episode, Dr. Ravi K. Bashyal, Director of Outpatient Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery at Endeavor Health, discusses groundbreaking research on infection prevention in joint replacements. Learn how his innovative use of advanced irrigation techniques has led to a remarkable 0% infection rate over three years, revolutionizing patient outcomes and healthcare costs.

This episode, recorded at the 21st Annual Spine Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + the Future of Spine Conference, features Dr. Michael Redler, Orthopedic surgeon at Connecticut Orthopaedics. Here, he discusses the evolving patient-provider dynamic, the impact of new technologies on patient care, and strategies for working smarter in healthcare. Dr. Redler also shares his experiences with medical missions and his commitment to opioid-sparing strategies.Disclosure: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual business, financial, legal, tax and/or other advisors and/or medical providers 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 accept no liability for any loss or harm arising from the use of the information provided. All statements and opinions in this podcast are the sole opinions of the guest. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Dr. Earl Kilbride, Surgeon at Austin Orthopedic Institute. Here, he discusses the importance of maintaining optimal staffing levels to ensure efficiency and safety, strategies for fostering alignment and communication among team members in a surgery center, and the value of taking a patient-centered approach to care. Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual business, financial, legal, tax, and/or other advisors with respect to any information presented. Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony”) make no representations or warranties regarding this content and accept 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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Joseph D'Agostino, ASC Administrator at Advanced Surgery Center Perimeter. Joseph shares insights on strategies to enhance patient satisfaction, foster financial transparency, and maintain a strong team culture amidst the growing demand for ASC services.

In this episode, Dr. Ravi K. Bashyal, Director of Outpatient Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery at Endeavor Health, joins the podcast to discuss his annual mission trips to Nepal with Operation Walk Chicago. He shares how his team provides free hip and knee replacements to underserved patients while training local providers, overcoming unique challenges, and fostering global collaboration to improve orthopedic care.

In this episode, Mark Davis, Adjunct Professor at the Forsyth Institute and former COO of the Miami Cancer Institute, shares his journey in operational turnarounds, driving patient satisfaction, and fostering a culture of excellence. Join this engaging discussion on the evolving challenges in healthcare and how strategic discipline and cultural alignment can lead to transformative success.

In this episode, Dr. Jason Koh, Orthopedic Surgeon at Endeavor Health, discusses cutting-edge advancements in regenerative medicine, robotic surgery, and AI, while addressing the challenges of declining reimbursements and rising costs in healthcare.

In this episode, Becker's Healthcare's Erika Spicer Mason speaks with April Spillane, Vice President of Health Economics at Barricaid. April discusses the surge in outpatient spine procedures, the challenges and opportunities surrounding reimbursement, and how innovations like Barricaid are paving the way for wider access and improved patient care in ASC settings. This episode is sponsored by Barricaid.

In this episode, Sarah Sterling, CASC, Area Director of Operations for Sutter Health Surgery Center Division, discusses key growth strategies in ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). Sarah shares insights on tackling provider shortages through innovative training programs, leveraging AI for operational efficiency, and expanding into higher-acuity procedures.

In this episode, Tina Piotrowski, CEO of Copper Ridge Surgery Center, joins the podcast to discuss key industry trends, including the impact of CMS payment changes and federal leadership shifts. She highlights Copper Ridge's growth strategies, investments in robotic technology, and a renewed focus on enhancing patient engagement and communication for 2025.

In this episode, Dr. George Ozoude, Orthopedic Surgeon & Founder of the Movement Orthopaedic Institute, discusses his journey from employed practice to pioneering a direct-pay care model in Houston, Texas. Dr. Ozoude shares the challenges and opportunities of his innovative approach, the importance of physician autonomy, and how marketing and technology are shaping the future of orthopedics.

Neeraja Kikkeri, CEO at North Texas Team Care Surgery, discusses her role in overseeing safety protocols, staffing, and ensuring the facility meets the needs of various payment systems. She shares the strategies her team employs to address challenges in the surgical care field, highlighting a proactive and solutions-focused approach to delivering safe, efficient, and patient-centered care.

Todd Currier, Administrator at Bend Surgery Center, shares strategies for boosting staff morale and providing education to enhance the patient experience. He emphasizes the significance of transparency with patients, covering every aspect of their procedure—from understanding their care plan to clear communication about costs. Currier’s approach highlights the value of a motivated team and open dialogue in building trust and delivering excellent care.

Elisa Auguste, Administrator at Precision Care Surgery Center and Vice President of the NY State Association of Ambulatory Surgery Centers, addresses the critical challenges of access to care and rising costs in the healthcare industry. She emphasizes the importance of comprehensive staff education, ensuring team members are well-prepared to answer patients’ questions and provide informed guidance. Auguste’s insights spotlight the need for proactive solutions to enhance patient access and deliver high-quality care.

This episode, recorded live at Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Jacob Corbell, CEO of Midwest Cardiovascular Institute. Jacob discusses the growing role of Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) in addressing critical challenges in cardiology, including improving patient access and reducing costs. He highlights the importance of efficiency, transparency, and strategic partnerships with local hospitals to drive innovation and enhance patient care in the evolving healthcare landscape.

Dr. Jeremy Pepin of Advanced Kidney Care explores the growing role of ASCs in interventional nephrology. He discusses key trends, operational benefits for dialysis patients, and the future of this evolving care setting. This episode is sponsored by Surgery Partners.

Alyson Engle, Physician at Integrated Pain Management, discusses the critical role of thorough staff training in achieving successful patient outcomes. She highlights the value of fostering open communication among team members and cultivating a family-oriented workplace culture. Engle shares how these practices create a supportive environment that enhances both staff performance and patient care.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Claude Royster, Vice President and General Manager of Wellness at CareCredit. Claude discusses strategies to address staffing challenges, leverage technology for operational efficiency, and integrate financial literacy into patient care. Learn how early financial conversations and patient financing solutions can enhance satisfaction while supporting ASC growth.Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual business, financial, legal, tax and/or other 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 accept 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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

Dr. Marvin K. Smith and Dr. Daniel B. Chan, leading orthopedic surgeons, join Becker's Healthcare to discuss their journeys in Sports Medicine and the evolution of Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs). They delve into the impact of higher acuity procedures on ASCs, strategic collaborations, and exciting developments in the field. This episode is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson MedTech. To advance your ASC Learning Journey with Johnson & Johnson MedTech’s ASC Preceptorship Program, please email [email protected].

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Cathy McDowell, President & CEO of KarenZupko & Associates, Inc. (KZA). Cathy shares her expertise on navigating the anticipated 16% growth in ASC volume by 2032, discussing strategies for overcoming staffing shortages, optimizing workflow efficiencies, and integrating financial literacy into patient-centered care. Tune in for actionable insights on enhancing patient experiences and aligning staff with organizational goals.Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consult with your individual business, financial, legal, tax and/or other 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 accept 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. Your receipt of this material constitutes your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Sheila Thompson, COO of Twin Cities Pain Clinics & Surgery Centers. Here, she discusses how disorganization in staffing can negatively impact the patient experience and emphasizes the need for adaptability in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape. Sheila also addresses the financial challenges posed by inflation and its effects on healthcare operations.

Kyle Anderson, VP of Finance and ASC at Ortho Rhode Island, explores the connection between employee engagement and exceptional patient experiences. He emphasizes the importance of hiring team members who are passionate about their work and creating an environment where they can thrive. Anderson shares insights into how a motivated, dedicated staff serves as the foundation for delivering outstanding care and building patient trust.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual Business and Operations of ASCs, features Sarah Sterling, Director of Area Operations for Greater San Francisco and Silicon Valley at Sutter Surgery Center Division. Sarah discusses strategies for addressing workforce challenges, aligning staff with organizational goals, improving patient satisfaction, and ensuring patient voices are central to care innovation.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Janet Carlson, Executive Director of Commonwealth Pain & Spine. Here, she discusses the importance of ensuring easy accessibility for patients and managing the challenges of a high patient volume. Janet also shares insights into adopting new technology and offers her perspective on the current state of the ASC space as a whole.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Ali Ghalayini, ASC Administrator for Munster Surgery Center. Here, he addresses staffing issues and challenges within the industry, highlighting the effectiveness of cross-training methods. Ali explains how cross-training ensures all staff members are equipped to step in as needed, helping to mitigate staffing shortages and maintain seamless operations.

Adam Hornback, Administrator at North Texas Team Care Surgery Center, highlights the importance of prioritizing patient experience, safety, and operational efficiency in surgical care. He discusses the value of price transparency in fostering trust with patients, ensuring they feel informed and supported throughout their care journey. Hornback underscores how clear communication and a patient-centered approach build confidence and strengthen the provider-patient relationship.

Dr. Aimee Miller, Administrator at Lido Surgical Institute, discusses the challenges of managing supply needs and maintaining high standards of care in the aftermath of natural disasters. She also emphasizes the importance of fostering a positive work environment, showcasing how strong leadership and team morale contribute to consistent, quality patient care even during difficult times.

Tina Driggers, Administrator at Day Surgery Center, opens up about the challenges of managing patient wait times and staffing shortages in today’s healthcare environment. She shares innovative approaches her team is implementing to address these issues effectively. Driggers also highlights the critical role of transparency among care providers in improving overall patient care and fostering trust across the healthcare continuum.

This episode features Bruce Feldman, Administrator, Bronx Ambulatory Surgery Center. Here, he discusses key insights into his background, ASC specific trends he is keeping an eye on going forward in 2024, his excitement surrounding the advancement of robotics & AI in ambulatory surgery, and more.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Dr. Ali H. Mesiwala, Neurosurgeon for DISC Sports & Spine Center. Here, he discusses strategies for increasing patient volume while maintaining a high-quality patient experience. Ali also explores the benefits and challenges of integrating new technology within the ASC system and emphasizes the importance of financial transparency with patients.

In this episode, Alan Condon speaks with Melissa Waibel, CEO of Guam Surgery Center, about her journey from perioperative nursing to leading a cutting-edge ASC in a remote U.S. territory. Melissa shares insights into overcoming supply chain challenges, fostering innovation, and recruiting rotating surgeons to enhance healthcare access on the island.

Eric Schnapp, CEO at Resolve Pain Solutions, discusses strategies for balancing growth and cost management in healthcare. He delves into enhancing the provider and patient experience, emphasizing the role of well-prepared staff in addressing patients' financial concerns with empathy and clarity. Schnapp offers insights into achieving operational efficiency while maintaining high-quality care, showcasing the importance of teamwork and proactive financial guidance in healthcare settings.

Cherie Whiting, Administrator at Lakeshore Surgery Center, shares her expertise on fostering long-term employee retention and enhancing workplace satisfaction. She highlights strategies for creating a positive employee environment, from improving facilities to cultivating a supportive culture. Whiting also connects the dots between employee well-being and patient care, illustrating how a happy, engaged team translates to better patient experiences and outcomes.

In this episode, Dr. Pedro Martinez-Clark, Medical Director at Amavita Heart & Vascular Health, discusses his practice's growth in Miami, the impact of Medicare Advantage trends, and the transition to value-based care. He also explores the role of innovative technologies in improving patient experiences and expanding outpatient cardiovascular procedures.

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Gabriel Figueroa, Administrator and COO of Manhattan Reproductive Surgery Center. Here, he discusses the significance of organized scheduling and its positive impact on both patients and staff. Gabriel also addresses strategies for mitigating patient dissatisfaction and emphasizes the importance of transparency with patients in all aspects of care.