A Checklist For Moving, Building & Expanding Your Ambulatory Surgery Center
In a recent town hall, TASCS members collaborated to provide the best advice for growth in the ambulatory care industry.
The Texas Ambulatory Surgery Center Society (TASCS) has seen significant growth and success in its ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). Because of this, members recently collaborated on a checklist and template that supports ASCs as they embark on a journey of growing, expanding, and building new facilities.
Core checklist points include a strong business plan, financial understanding, direction for the project, and knowledge of how to open an ASC, as mentioned by board member James McClung. Other members agreed and shared that realistic timelines and expectations are equally valuable when reviewing the goals and dreams for the project.
Another valuable checklist point is identifying crucial contributors to the ASC and valuing their ideas for the project. These experts span from surgeons and clinical staff who will be using the facility and working with patients to architects in charge of the building. While surgeons and staff can brainstorm logical needs for the design and whether the option to open a new facility is viable, seasoned architects can make the dreams of the building a reality and provide projected timelines. Reviewing and understanding the Texas Administrative Code Chapter 135 is also imperative to ensuring the success of the construction endeavor, said board member Akshay Tavkar.
In addition to the thorough analysis of costs and construction, TASCS members agreed that some potential roadblocks are regulatory requirements and compliance checks with the AAAHC. The surveys needed for the process can be extensive, so it is imperative to ensure completion promptly.
While all of these ideas and suggestions are important to the flourishing of ASC facility growth, one of the themes of the conversation was the importance of communication with all parties involved. With the support and guidance provided by members through knowledge, collaboration, and the creation of this checklist, TASCS is helping to set others up for this kind of success. As Tavkar expressed, “TASCS is dedicated to promoting our ASCs and our industries…We are a resource for everyone, and we want everyone to be successful in their respective ASCs.”
