Choosing Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) to Save Money
When planning a medical procedure, one of the most important decisions you can make is where to receive care. For many outpatient procedures, choosing an Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) instead of a hospital can lead to significant savings.
At EverTrust Health Share, members are encouraged to explore fair-cost care options, and ASCs are one of the most effective ways to reduce overall medical expenses.
Why Surgical Centers Cost Less
Ambulatory Surgery Centers are designed specifically for outpatient procedures, which allows them to operate more efficiently than traditional hospitals.
Because ASCs are smaller, specialized facilities, they have lower overhead and reduced operating costs. They also charge significantly lower facility fees compared to hospitals. This efficiency translates directly into savings for patients. In many cases, procedures performed at an ASC can cost 45–60% less than the same procedure performed in a hospital setting, even when the level of care and quality are comparable.
Financial and Clinical Benefits
The cost difference can be substantial. For example, a diagnostic colonoscopy may cost approximately $1,179 at an ASC compared to over $3,600 at a hospital.
Beyond cost savings, ASCs often provide:
- Faster scheduling and shorter wait times
- A more streamlined patient experience
- Lower infection rates and fewer complications
- Access to specialized surgical teams and equipment
These factors not only reduce costs but can also improve overall outcomes and recovery time.
When an ASC Is the Right Choice
Ambulatory Surgery Centers are best suited for:
- Low-risk procedures
- Elective surgeries
- Same-day outpatient treatments
Hospitals remain the appropriate setting for more complex procedures, emergency care, or situations requiring overnight stays or advanced medical support.
How EverTrust Members Can Benefit
Before scheduling a procedure, members should request a Good Faith Estimate and ask whether the procedure can be performed at an ASC.
Working with EverTrust ahead of time can help identify fair-cost providers, compare options, and ensure the procedure aligns with Member Guidelines.
Members who take this proactive approach not only reduce their own out-of-pocket costs, but also help support the sustainability of the EverTrust community. In some cases, these cost-saving efforts may contribute to a reduction in the Member Responsibility Amount.
The Bottom Line Choosing an Ambulatory Surgery Center when appropriate is one of the most effective ways to lower healthcare costs. With potential savings of 45–60% and a more efficient care experience, ASCs provide a valuable option for members looking to take control of their healthcare decisions.