What is an ambulatory surgical center?

An ambulatory surgical center (ASC) is a healthcare facility where surgical procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients go home the same day. ASCs offer a lower-cost, more convenient alternative to hospital-based surgery for appropriate procedures like colonoscopies, cataract surgery, orthopedic procedures, and pain management.

What are the advantages of surgery at an ASC vs. hospital?

ASCs typically offer lower costs (often 40-60% less than hospitals), shorter wait times, more convenient scheduling, lower infection rates due to focused procedures, and a more personalized patient experience. However, hospitals are necessary for complex procedures, patients with serious health conditions, or surgeries requiring overnight stays.

Does Medicare cover ambulatory surgery center procedures?

Yes, Medicare covers thousands of approved procedures at ASCs under Part B. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after meeting your deductible. ASCs are Medicare-certified and must meet quality and safety standards. Check if your specific procedure is covered and if the ASC participates in Medicare.

Find Surgical Centers Near You

Search 5,614 Surgical Centers across the United States

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The National Landscape

Understanding Surgical Centers across the United States

5,614

Ambulatory Surgical Centers Nationwide

Data from CMS Ambulatory Surgical Center Quality Reporting and Provider of Services (POS) files.

Understanding Surgical Centers

Common ASC Procedures

Orthopedic: Knee/hip arthroscopy, rotator cuff repair, carpal tunnel release
Eye: Cataract surgery, LASIK, retinal procedures
GI: Colonoscopy, upper endoscopy
Pain management: Epidural injections, nerve blocks
General: Hernia repair, gallbladder removal, biopsies

ASC vs. Hospital Outpatient

Cost: ASCs typically cost 45-60% less than hospital outpatient departments for the same procedure.
Efficiency: Designed for surgery—shorter waits, streamlined process, dedicated staff.
Infection rates: Often lower than hospitals because no ER or inpatients with complex conditions.
Limitation: Not for complex cases or patients who may need overnight observation.

Is an ASC Right for You?

Good candidate: Generally healthy, no complex conditions, procedure is straightforward
Have a responsible adult: You'll need someone to drive you home and stay with you
Follow prep instructions: ASCs have strict protocols—follow them precisely
Know the backup plan: What happens if you need to be transferred to a hospital?

Choosing an ASC

Verify accreditation: Look for Medicare certification and accreditation from AAAHC, AAAASF, or The Joint Commission.

Ask about surgeon volume: How many of your specific procedures has this surgeon performed here? Experience matters.

Get a cost estimate: ASCs can often provide an all-in price. Compare to hospital outpatient costs.

Hospital transfer agreement: "Which hospital do you have a transfer agreement with?" Know where you'd go if complications arise.

ASC Coverage

Medicare Part B

Covers ASC procedures at 80% after deductible. You pay 20% coinsurance. Often significantly less than hospital outpatient.

Private Insurance

Most plans cover ASCs, often with lower cost-sharing than hospitals. Some plans incentivize ASC use with waived copays.

Bundled Pricing

Many ASCs offer bundled prices including facility, surgeon, and anesthesia. Ask for a total cost estimate.

Self-Pay Discounts

Paying cash? Many ASCs offer significant discounts. It can be cheaper than using high-deductible insurance.

Browse Surgical Centers by State

Select a state to find Surgical Centers in your area

Alaska 16 Alabama 35 Arkansas 61 Arizona 180 California 804 Colorado 122 Connecticut 50 District of Columbia 3 Delaware 23 Florida 424 Georgia 346 Hawaii 21 Iowa 24 Idaho 53 Illinois 123 Indiana 126 Kansas 61 Kentucky 33 Louisiana 82 Massachusetts 56 Maryland 344 Maine 16 Michigan 102 Minnesota 71 Missouri 96 Mississippi 72 Montana 17 North Carolina 104 North Dakota 12 Nebraska 49 New Hampshire 26 New Jersey 264 New Mexico 17 Nevada 69 New York 133 Ohio 185 Oklahoma 43 Oregon 87 Pennsylvania 238 Rhode Island 11 South Carolina 66 South Dakota 19 Tennessee 134 Texas 379 Utah 41 Virginia 53 Vermont 1 Washington 189 Wisconsin 77 West Virginia 10 Wyoming 18

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Official Data

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