THE SHIFT TO OFFICE-BASED HEALTHCARE PROCEDURE

ASCs have played a significant role in the move from acute to non-acute settings for procedures. “ASCs have led innovations that have transformed outpatient surgery,” according to an ASC Industry Overview. “New technology and techniques have made outpatient surgery safer and more comfortable, which has led to continued growth in the market.”

Today, more than 80% of surgeries are performed in an outpatient setting, according to the Ambulatory Surgery Center Association. That momentum is now carrying procedures one step further by moving them into office-based care.

The reasons are clear. On average, office-based procedures cost 52% less than in hospitals and 42% less than those performed in ASCs, according to an article by Becker’s ASC Review. Reduced reliance on general anesthesia and advancements in surgical tools have allowed patients to experience treatment in a familiar office setting.

“As medical technology, anesthesia protocols and new medications allow an increasing number of higher-acuity cases to be safely performed, they require fewer of the support and recovery services that previously made it necessary to operate in an HOPD,” according to Sullivan Healthcare Consulting. “This enables more procedures to take place in the ASC setting.”

For example, cataract removals are increasingly performed in-office, while orthopedic surgeons are handling minor hand procedures without requiring a hospital operating room. Dermatologists and pain specialists are also turning to in-office procedures for treatments that once required acute environments.

BENEFITS OF IN-OFFICE SURGERIES FOR NON-ACUTE PROVIDERS

For healthcare providers, in-office surgery can deliver advantages that go beyond cost savings. Surgeons and facilities gain more control over scheduling, staffing and patient flow compared to hospital settings. This greater autonomy can reduce bottlenecks, improve efficiency and enhance patient experiences.

Operational efficiency can also contribute to a facility’s growth. By expanding service lines to include in-office procedures, providers can increase patient volume and generate new revenue streams while maintaining high safety standards. For specialties such as ophthalmology, dermatology and orthopedics, the ability to offer office-based surgeries can be a differentiator in competitive markets

Non-acute providers may also find that patient satisfaction improves when care takes place in a setting that feels more personal and welcoming than a hospital. Reduced travel time, faster time to discharge and lower infection risk all play a role in ensuring strong patient loyalty.

WHY IN-OFFICE SURGERIES MAY BE THE FUTURE

Office-based procedures will further expand if current trends continue. The minimally invasive surgery market in the U.S. reached $25.7 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $36.3 billion by 2033, according to IMARC Group.
“As these surgeries aid in reducing post-operative pain and offer fast recovery, numerous surgeons are now performing them in their own clinics,” IMARC explains. “Therefore, the rising number of physician-owned ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) is providing impetus to the market growth.”

Patient preferences are also shifting. Patients and their families look for outpatient options that fit their schedules, offer lower prices than acute care and reduce the burden of hospital stays. As a result, office-based surgery has emerged as the natural next step in surgical ambulatory care.

HOW A GPO LIKE PROVISTA CAN HELP

For non-acute providers considering or expanding in-office surgery capabilities, success depends on access to the right supplies, equipment and services. This is where a group purchasing organization (GPO) like Provista plays a critical role.

For instance, with Provista, clients gain access to contracts that offer high-quality, cost-effective products tailored to office-based settings. From surgical supplies to sterile instruments and infection-prevention products, Provista ensures providers can maintain both quality and affordability with in-office procedures.

Provista also brings the scale, supplier partnerships and expertise to help facilities manage costs, streamline procurement and build confidence in their supply strategies. For non-acute providers, this means they can focus on delivering excellent care in-office rather than negotiating contracts with multiple suppliers.

Provista Medical Equipment Planning services add another layer of benefits for facilities considering or already offering office-based surgeries. The services help facilities plan, source and install the most optimal equipment for their needs. By offering both project management expertise and industry-leading group purchasing organization (GPO) contracts, Provista helps clients meet their surgical goals at competitive prices. 

From early design to installation, Provista helps non-acute providers align their equipment strategy with their growth strategy. This helps them deliver quality care in efficient, well-equipped office settings.

As the healthcare industry continues to shift care to non-acute environments, office-based procedures are poised to play a greater role in surgeries. They reduce costs, improve convenience and create opportunities for growth, which benefits patients and providers alike.

With the support of GPO partners like Provista, providers can confidently embrace this trend. They can access the tools, products and expertise needed to make office-based care safe, profitable and sustainable.