ST LOUIS, February 12, 2020 – National Medical Billing Services recognizes the 50th anniversary of the ambulatory surgery center (ASC). On this date in 1970, Surgicenter opened its doors in Phoenix, Ariz. Five physicians performed procedures and an industry was born.
“As we celebrate this industry milestone, we should be proud of our achievements,” said Nader Samii, CEO, National Medical Billing Services. “I look forward to seeing how ASCs continue to change how healthcare is delivered.”
The brainchild of Wallace A. Reed, MD, and John L. Ford, MD, the first ASC took two years to develop. In 1968, the doctors began work on their idea to provide an affordable and accessible alternative to outpatient surgery while still providing quality care. Since ASCs were a new concept, the pair created objectives for the center and set forth on a path of gaining support from the necessary governmental agencies and the health care community.
Fifty years later, the ASC industry is thriving by offering a better experience for both the patient and the physician at a lower cost than hospitals. According to a report by the Health Industry Distributors Association (HIDA), the growth in outpatient procedure volume is predicted to increase by 16 percent through 2026.
“It’s amazing to see how much this industry has grown,” said Nader Samii, CEO, National Medical Billing Services. “Today, there are approximately 6,000 ASCs and we continue to grow with more complex procedures being performed in this setting.”
About National Medical Billing Services
National Medical Billing Services is a national healthcare revenue cycle management company with a focus on servicing ambulatory surgery centers and their affiliated surgeons. National Medical’s team of professionals consults with ASCs and their surgeons to aid them in maximizing revenue while adapting to and overcoming industry challenges and changes.
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This post was first published February 18, 2020 and was updated July 29, 2020.
