Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) are modern healthcare facilities that function as distinct entities operating exclusively to provide same-day surgical services, including diagnostic and preventative procedures. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly two-thirds of all operations are performed in an outpatient facility and can take as little as a few minutes to a few hours. These procedures are not for medical emergencies and can range from mole removal or hernia repair to a knee replacement. As a revolutionized alternative for providing quality care with positive patient outcomes, ASCs have made it more convenient, accessible, and cost-effective for millions of beneficiaries not requiring hospitalization to receive hospital-based outpatient procedures. Ref 65-1 NC Medicaid Division of Health Benefits (NCDHHS). Ambulatory Surgical Center Services. https://medicaid.ncdhhs.gov/providers/programs-and-... - You do not have permission to view this object.  Ref 65-2 Ambulatory Surgery Center Association (ASCA). What is an ASC? https://www.ascassociation.org/asca/about-ascs/surgery-centers. Last reviewe... - You do not have permission to view this object.  Ref 65-3 American Society of Anesthesiologists. Outpatient Surgery. https://www.asahq.org/madeforthismoment/preparing-for-surgery/procedures/outpat... - You do not have permission to view this object.  ASCs are highly regulated healthcare facilities that must comply with a wide range of laws, rules, regulations, and statutes. To maintain compliance, ASCs are required to establish and maintain programs and procedures for preventing infections, thus maintaining a strict sanitary environment. Ref 65-4 Ambulatory Surgery Center Association (ASCA). Quality and Safety. https://www.ascassociation.org/about-ascs/quality-and-safety. Last revie... - You do not have permission to view this object.