Improving ambulatory surgery reimbursement

As outpatient services become the new focal point for managed care, ambulatory surgery reimbursement structures are coming under increasing scrutiny. Operating room managers play a key role in developing ambulatory surgery payment mechanisms that are competitive, clinically meaningful and profitable. Operating room managers must understand the market forces that are redefining outpatient surgery reimbursement as well as the reimbursement mechanisms involved. Payment methodologies in ambulatory surgery are explored.