The Regulation of Ambulatory Surgery Centers

ASCs are some of the most highly regulated health care providers in the country. Medicare has certified 85% of the centers, and 43 states require ASCs to be licensed. These states also specify the criteria that ASCs must meet for licensure. Both states and Medicare survey ASCs regularly to verify that the established standards are being met.

In addition to state and federal inspections, many surgery centers choose to go through voluntary accreditation processes conducted by their peers. ASCs that want to demonstrate a commitment to quality can seek accreditation from one of four accrediting bodies (AAAHC, The Joint Commission, AAAASF, and AOA). All four organizations are recognized by Medicare for their rigorous adherence to the highest standards of quality care. All accredited ASCs must meet specific standards that are evaluated during on-site inspections. As a result, patients visiting accredited ASCs can be assured that the centers provide the highest quality care.

Federal Regulation

All ambulatory surgery centers approved for Medicare reimbursement must undergo rigorous inspections by the federal government. Approximately 85% of all ASCs are Medicare-approved, meaning that the federal government will reimburse Medicare patients for procedures performed in these centers.

In order to become Medicare-approved, however, medical facilities undergo rigorous inspections. ASCs' history with Medicare dates back to 1982 when the federal government first approved Medicare to cover costs of patients who have surgery in ambulatory surgery centers. That year, 200 procedures were approved for Medicare; today that number is more than 2,400.

State Regulation

Forty-three states require state licensure for ASCs. These states also specify the criteria that ASCs must meet for licensure. Both states and Medicare survey ASCs regularly to verify that the established standards are being met. Thus, ASCs are the most highly regulated type of ambulatory medical facility.

Peer Accreditation

In addition to state and federal inspections, many surgery centers choose to undergo a voluntary accreditation process conducted by their peers.

Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC)
5200 Old Orchard Road #200
Skokie, IL 60077
Phone - 847.853.6060
Fax - 847.853.9028
info@aaahc.org
www.aaahc.org

The Joint Commission
One Renaissance Blvd
Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
Phone - 630.792.5000
Fax - 630.792.5005
www.jointcommission.org

American Association for Accreditation for Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF)
5101 Washington St #2F
Gurnee, IL 60031
Phone - 888.545.5222
Fax - 847.775.1985
www.aaaasf.org

American Osteopathic Association (AOA)
142 E Ontario St
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone -- 312.202.8000
Fax -- 312.202.8200
www.do-online.org