Eyeworld

DECEMBER 2020 | EYEWORLD | 127 P long this cautious attitude will last, but for the hospitals looking to invest in existing or de novo ventures and the physicians looking to collab- orate, it is important to acknowledge patients' increased interest in ASCs. ASC joint ventures going forward As the benefits of ASC systems become more widely understood and the industry conforms to the value-based care model, physician-hospital joint venture ASCs are a trend that will contin- ue to grow in popularity. However, no matter what their motivation, both parties should keep in mind that mutually beneficial ASCs must be developed under the right circumstances to deliver those benefits. Before investing or part- nering, seek out a financial feasibility study and consult with an ASC development and manage- ment expert to ensure those potential gains are worth the cost. Access insurance contracts. Negotiating in- surance contracts can take time and persistence. Teaming up gives physicians the benefit of hos- pital leverage that can assist with gaining access to insurance plans or improved reimbursement rates they may not otherwise obtain. Access stable funding. More reliable funding is perhaps the most obvious benefit to partnering with a hospital. Backed by a larg- er resource, the ASC may seek out the most effective technology and more qualified care providers, optimizing both patient results and experience and increasing revenue. Shared motivators, including COVID Aside from lower operating costs that make care more affordable for patients, an improved patient experience is often a reason to shift procedures to an ASC. Physicians and hospitals both stand to gain from happy patients. ASCs attribute improved patient satisfaction to greater accessibility, an often smaller, less confusing facility, and a patient environment designed for comfort, speed, and specialized care. An ASC offers a more relaxed environment compared to an intimidatingly large hospital full of acutely ill patients, especially in 2020 when COVID-19 has changed the way many patients feel about safety during healthcare appoint- ments. While there is still very little published re- search available to confirm that patients prefer an ASC setting, feedback collected from patients of our ASC clients, as well as talk at virtual industry meetings, suggests that the prevail- ing attitude toward hospitals and healthcare environments is caution. Patients are hesitant to venture into buildings where many people congregate and the risk of COVID exposure is perceived to be higher despite enhanced safety procedures. In ASC facility reviews, patients ex- press appreciation for safety procedures related to appointment scheduling that limits the num- ber of people in the building at one time, stating they feel safer. There is no way to predict how "As the benefits of ASC systems become more widely understood and the industry conforms to the value-based care model, physician-hospital joint venture ASCs are a trend that will continue to grow in popularity. "

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