AMSURG Continues Growth With Acquisition of Pinnacle Surgery Center

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NASHVILLE, Tenn., April 15, 2025 — AMSURG, an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services, has expanded its footprint in Louisiana with the acquisition of Pinnacle Surgery Center. Located in Covington at 1234 Pinnacle Parkway, the state-of-the-art outpatient facility is 8,787 square feet with three operating rooms and one procedure room.

“We are thrilled to welcome Pinnacle Surgery Center to the AMSURG portfolio,” said John Lamberth, Chief Development Officer at AMSURG. “Their outstanding team and commitment to patient-centered care is evident through the relationships they have built and the exceptional service they’ve delivered to their community. We look forward to combining our expertise with theirs to further elevate the quality and accessibility of same-day surgical care in the region.”

Pinnacle Surgery Center is home to 17 skilled physicians who specialize in spine, pain management and eye procedures. The facility also offers 23-hour overnight stay capabilities for patients needing extended recovery time. With a focus on clinical excellence and operational efficiency, the center’s modern facility is designed to provide patients with high-quality, cost-effective care.

The center is currently open and accepting patients. For more information on Pinnacle Surgery Center’s services or to schedule an appointment, visit pinnacleasc.com.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services, operating a network of more than 250 surgery centers nationwide. In partnership with physicians and health systems, the organization delivers high-quality patient care across a diverse spectrum of medical specialties, including gastroenterology, ophthalmology and orthopedics. Guided by its core values — Care Deeply, Champion Excellence, Cultivate Integrity and Celebrate Teamwork — AMSURG is committed to transforming the future of ambulatory surgery center care and services with a focus on strategic growth and innovation. To learn more about AMSURG, visit www.amsurg.com.

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AMSURG Contact:

Anna Peacock

Manager, Public Relations

AMSURG

Anna.Peacock@AMSURG.com

50 AMSURG Physicians Named to Boston Magazine’s 2025 Top Doctors List

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NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 31, 2025 — AMSURG, a leader in ambulatory surgery center services, is proud to announce 50 of its physicians have been recognized by Boston Magazine in their annual Top Doctors List. The 2025 edition ranks 2,041 of the area’s most-highly regarded physicians from more than 80 specialties.

“AMSURG is honored to collaborate with these exceptional physicians who are truly committed to providing outstanding patient care. Their inclusion in this list is a testament to their expertise and dedication, and we look forward to celebrating them for the positive impact they impart on their patients and communities,” said AMSURG Chief Clinical Officer, Abbey Vandersall, MD, MS. “Congratulations to each of these well-deserving physicians on this remarkable achievement.”

AMSURG physicians named to Boston Magazine’s 2025 Top Doctors List:

Catherine P. Cheney, MD — Boston Endoscopy Center Daria Homenko, MD — Boston Endoscopy Center
Dennis E. Lee, MD — Boston Endoscopy Center Douglas K. Pleskow, MD — Boston Endoscopy Center
Harry T. Anastopoulos, MD — Boston Endoscopy Center Joseph D. Feuerstein, MD — Boston Endoscopy Center
Laurence S. Bailen, MD — Boston Endoscopy Center Lynne B. Ahn, MD — Boston Endoscopy Center
Steven N. Fine, MD — Boston Endoscopy Center Sunil G. Sheth, MD — Boston Endoscopy Center
Alan S. Curtis, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC Andrew Jawa, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC
Anthony J. Schena, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC Brian Kwon, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC
Glen Ross, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC Hervey L. Kimball, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC
Jennifer B. Green, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC Jinsil K. Sung, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC
Kai Mithoefer, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC Kurt J. Hoffman, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC
Mark Paul Slovenkai, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC Michael Reinhorn, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC
Paul P. Weitzel, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC Suzanne L. Miller, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC
Thomas H. Wuerz, MD — Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites, LLC Christopher S. Huang, MD — Eastern Massachusetts Surgery Center
Daniel N. Driscoll, MD — Eastern Massachusetts Surgery Center John T. Frasca, MD — Eastern Massachusetts Surgery Center
Michael J. Curran, MD — Eastern Massachusetts Surgery Center Ramsey Alsarraf, MD — Eastern Massachusetts Surgery Center
Raghuveer C. Muppavarapu, MD — Eastern Massachusetts Surgery Center Robert L. Patz, MD — Eastern Massachusetts Surgery Center
Stephen J. Ferzoco, MD — Eastern Massachusetts Surgery Center Ann Marie Joyce, MD — Middlesex Digestive Health & Endoscopy Center
Benjamin J. Hyatt, MD — Middlesex Digestive Health & Endoscopy Center Gail M. Herzig, MD — Middlesex Digestive Health & Endoscopy Center
Lauren M. Bleich, MD — Middlesex Digestive Health & Endoscopy Center Mark P. Epstein, MD — Middlesex Digestive Health & Endoscopy Center
Michael L. Desimone, MD — Middlesex Digestive Health & Endoscopy Center Peter E. Krims, MD — Middlesex Digestive Health & Endoscopy Center
Allen L. Hwang, MD — Northeast Endoscopy Center Geetanjali A. Akerkar, MD — Northeast Endoscopy Center
Heidi Ahmed, MD — Northeast Endoscopy Center Jacqueline N. Chu, MD — Northeast Endoscopy Center
James H. Reichheld, MD — Northeast Endoscopy Center James L. Connolly, MD — Northeast Endoscopy Center
Michael J. Huang, MD — Northeast Endoscopy Center Nitin Aggarwal, MD — Northeast Endoscopy Center
Richard Tilson, MD — Northeast Endoscopy Center Supriya Rao, MD — Northeast Endoscopy Center

Ahead of the yearly list, Boston Magazine works alongside Castle Connolly Medical Ltd., a healthcare research firm, to collect feedback from physicians and medical leadership from the highest-rated hospitals to nominate esteemed physicians in the region. From there, Castle Connolly’s physician-led team extensively sorts through the nominations to select those most highly regarded by their peers. For more information on AMSURG and its award-winning physicians visit www.amsurg.com.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services, operating a network of more than 250 surgery centers nationwide. In partnership with physicians and health systems, the organization delivers high-quality patient care across a diverse spectrum of medical specialties, including gastroenterology, ophthalmology and orthopedics. With a focus on strategic growth and innovation, AMSURG is committed to transforming the future of ambulatory surgery center care and services. To learn more about AMSURG, visit www.amsurg.com.

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Media Contact:

Anna Peacock

Manager, Public Relations

AMSURG

Anna.Peacock@AMSURG.com

U.S. News & World Report Names 64 AMSURG Ambulatory Surgery Centers Among Best in Nation

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NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 18, 2025 — AMSURG, a leader in ambulatory surgery center services, announces 64 of its surgery centers have been recognized by the U.S. News & World Report among the 2025 Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers nationwide. This marks a 12 percent increase in the number of AMSURG centers recognized in the annual rankings compared to 2024, with 35 centers earning a spot on the 2025 list for the second consecutive year.

“Providing high-quality patient care is a core commitment at every AMSURG center,” said Jeff Snodgrass, President and CEO of AMSURG. “Having 64 of our centers recognized by U.S. News & World Report is a testament to the expertise and compassion of our teams across the country. This achievement directly reflects our unwavering dedication to excellence. Congratulations to all centers honored.”

AMSURG surgery centers named to U.S. News’ 2025 Best ASCs are:

Ambulatory Endoscopy Center of Maryland Arizona Ophthalmic Outpatient Surgery
Associated Endoscopy Baptist Health Endoscopy Center – West Palm Beach
Baptist Surgery and Endoscopy Center at Northpoint Bend Surgery Center
Blue Ridge Surgery Center Blue Water Surgery Center-Port Huron
Campus Surgery Center Cascade Endoscopy Center
Center for Digestive Endoscopy Central Massachusetts Ambulatory Endoscopy Center
Chevy Chase Endoscopy Center College Heights Endoscopy Center
Columbia Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Center Columbus Eye Surgery Center
Connecticut Eye Surgery Center South Digestive Health Center of Bedford
Digestive Health Center of Dallas Doctors Park Surgery Center
Eagle Eye Surgery and Laser Center East Bay Endosurgery Center
Eastern Massachusetts Surgery Center Endocentre of Baltimore
Endoscopic Imaging Center-Overland Park Endoscopic Surgical Centre of Maryland
Endoscopy Center of The Central Coast Endoscopy Center of The South Bay
Endoscopy Center of Washington D.C. Eye Surgery Center of Tulsa
Gastroenterology Diagnostics of Northern New Jersey Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Associates GIEA
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Center-Troy Glen Endoscopy Center
Guilford Endoscopy Center Gulf Coast Endoscopy Center South
Harford Endoscopy Center Long Beach Surgery Center
Main Line Endoscopy Center West Metairie Endoscopy ASC
MGA Gastrointestinal Diagnostic and Therapeutic Center Mid-Atlantic Gastrointestinal Center
Northside Gastroenterology Endoscopy Center Oak Lawn IL Endoscopy ASC
Oak Tree Surgery Center Outpatient Surgery Center of Boca Raton
Paducah Ophthalmology ASC Palm Endoscopy Center
Poway Surgery Center Premier Outpatient Surgery Center
Raleigh Endoscopy Center-North Red River Surgery Center
Seaside Endoscopy Pavilion Space Coast Endoscopy Center
Suncoast Endoscopy ASC Surgery Center of Volusia
The Endoscopy Center North The Endoscopy Center West
The Endoscopy Center-North The Scranton Endoscopy Center
University Endoscopy Center-Cincinnati Valley Digestive Health Center
West Bank Surgery Center West Chester Endoscopy

U.S. News and CareJourney rated more than 4,000 surgery centers across the country on several criteria, including how successfully they avoided complications, ER visits, unplanned hospitalizations and other undesirable outcomes; patient outcomes; risk-adjustment and more. Ambulatory Surgery Centers were evaluated in four separate specialty areas: Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, Ophthalmology and Urology. 

AMSURG centers were recognized in all four specialty areas. To learn more about AMSURG’s award-winning centers or to find one near you, visit amsurg.com.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services, operating a network of more than 250 surgery centers nationwide. In partnership with physicians and health systems, the organization delivers high-quality patient care across a diverse spectrum of medical specialties, including gastroenterology, ophthalmology and orthopedics. With a focus on strategic growth and innovation, AMSURG is committed to transforming the future of ambulatory surgery center care and services. To learn more about AMSURG, visit www.amsurg.com.

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Media Contact:

Anna Peacock

Manager, Public Relations

AMSURG

Anna.Peacock@AMSURG.com

AMSURG Introduces New Company Values to Strengthen Culture and Commitment to Excellence

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NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 13, 2025 — AMSURG, a national leader in ambulatory surgery center (ASC) management and healthcare services, today announced the introduction of its new company values, reinforcing its commitment to integrity, collaboration, excellence and patient-centered care. These values are the foundation for AMSURG’s culture and will guide the organization’s decision-making, interactions and service delivery across its network of more than 250 surgery centers nationwide.

The new values—Care Deeply, Cultivate Integrity, Champion Excellence and Celebrate Teamwork—reflect AMSURG’s dedication to providing high-quality, patient-focused care while fostering a workplace culture of accountability, continuous improvement and collaboration.

“At AMSURG, our values define who we are and how we serve our patients, partners and communities,” said Jeff Snodgrass, President and CEO of AMSURG. “These updated values reflect our unwavering commitment to clinical excellence, ethical leadership and a culture where every team member is empowered to make a difference.”

Values Rollout and Implementation

AMSURG is launching an organization-wide initiative to integrate these values into daily operations, leadership expectations and employee engagement. Key components of the rollout include:

  • Leadership Alignment: Company leaders will model these values in decision-making and strategic planning.
  • Employee Engagement: Internal events, workshops and communications will provide employees with opportunities to embrace and incorporate the values into their roles.
  • Recognition Programs: AMSURG will introduce new ways to celebrate employees who exemplify these values in their work.
  • Patient and Partner Commitment: The values will be reflected in the company’s approach to patient care, physician collaboration and community partnerships.

“We are excited to roll out these values in a meaningful way, ensuring that they resonate with our teams and enhance our culture,” said Susan Byrd, Chief People and Culture Officer. “These principles will guide us in delivering exceptional care and strengthening our partnerships.”

AMSURG remains committed to upholding these values in all aspects of its business as it continues to support high-quality surgical care nationwide.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services, operating a network of more than 250 surgery centers nationwide. In partnership with physicians and health systems, the organization delivers high-quality patient care across a diverse spectrum of medical specialties, including gastroenterology, ophthalmology and orthopedics. With a focus on strategic growth and innovation, AMSURG is committed to transforming the future of ambulatory surgery center care and services. To learn more about AMSURG, visit www.amsurg.com.

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Media Contact:

Anna Peacock

Manager, Public Relations

AMSURG

Anna.Peacock@AMSURG.com

AMSURG Urges Early Screening Amid Rising Colon Cancer Rates During Awareness Month

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NASHVILLE, Tennessee, March 3, 2025 — As Colon Cancer Awareness Month kicks off, AMSURG, a national leader in ambulatory surgery center services and gastrointestinal (GI) care, is emphasizing the critical importance of early screening and prevention of the disease. The company’s campaign aims to educate Americans about the warning signs of colon cancer while increasing access to life-saving colonoscopies in light of rising rates among young adults.

“Colon cancer is preventable with appropriate screening and highly treatable when detected early, and yet, it remains the second leading cause of cancer death and is rising in incidence, especially among younger populations, according to the American Cancer Society,” said AMSURG Chief Clinical Officer Abbey Vandersall, MD, MS. “At AMSURG, we support over a million patients a year through their colonoscopies and see firsthand the challenges patients face when it comes to screening. That’s why we’re committed to breaking down barriers — whether through innovative partnerships or by improving education, access and affordability — all of which are crucial to enabling early detection and saving lives.”

AMSURG partners with more than 1,300 GI physicians across the country, providing high-quality care and advancing colon cancer prevention efforts. These physicians play a vital role in creating prevention plans, identifying pre-cancerous polyps, diagnosing colon cancer and guiding patients through treatment.

“Our network of GI physicians works tirelessly on the front lines of the fight against colon cancer, providing high-quality care and performing life-saving screenings every day,” shared AMSURG Medical Staff Lead Jay Popp, MD, MACG. “Their commitment to early detection and prevention is at the heart of our mission. Through collaboration, education and ongoing advancements, we are dedicated to beating this preventable disease.”

A colonoscopy is the most thorough screening test. It enables physicians to examine the entire colon to identify and remove polyps before they pose a greater health risk to patients. Individuals should consult a physician if they are experiencing any signs or symptoms or have questions about when they should be screened.

To learn more about colorectal cancer or where to schedule a colonoscopy, visit StopColonCancerNow.com.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services, operating a network of more than 250 surgery centers nationwide. In partnership with physicians and health systems, the organization delivers high-quality patient care across a diverse spectrum of medical specialties, including gastroenterology, ophthalmology and orthopedics. With a focus on strategic growth and innovation, AMSURG is committed to transforming the future of ambulatory surgery center care and services. To learn more about AMSURG, visit www.amsurg.com.

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AMSURG Contact:

Anna Peacock

Manager, Public Relations

AMSURG

Anna.Peacock@AMSURG.com

Four AMSURG Centers Recognized With Prestigious Press Ganey 2024 Human Experience Awards

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NASHVILLE, Tennessee, February 12, 2025 — Four AMSURG centers were recognized by Press Ganey, the global leader in healthcare experience solutions and services, as a part of the 2024 Human Experience Awards. The honors are included in Press Ganey’s annual ranking of the country’s top hospitals and health systems, based on patient and employee experience performance. The annual awards are selected from a competitive pool of more than 4,400 facilities.

The 2024 Pinnacle of Excellence Award is an honor that recognizes the top performers based on results of designated survey measures for the three-year award period. Winners are selected by volume-based subgroups using data from April 2021 to March 2024. AMSURG Pinnacle of Excellence Centers are as follows:

  • Harford Endoscopy Center (Bel Air, Maryland)
  • Phoenix Endoscopy (Phoenix, Arizona)
  • Woodlands Endoscopy Center (Woodlands, Texas)

The Guardian of Excellence Award honors centers with 95th percentile or higher scores on survey measures. The honor is given annually to organizations with sustained performance within the top 5 percent for the reporting period from April 2023 to March 2024. The 2024 AMSURG Centers that were awarded the Guardian of Excellence Award are as follows:

  • Endoscopy Center of Southeast Texas (Beaumont, Texas)
  • Woodlands Endoscopy Center (Woodlands, Texas)

“Receiving this recognition from Press Ganey is a testament to AMSURG’s unwavering commitment to delivering patient-centered, high-quality, cost-effective care,” said AMSURG Chief Clinical Officer Abbey Vandersall, MD, MS. “We are incredibly proud of the dedication displayed by our teams at these four centers and the life-changing care provided every day by all of our centers across the nation.”  

For more information about AMSURG and its award-winning centers, visit www.amsurg.com.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services, operating a network of more than 250 surgery centers nationwide. In partnership with physicians and health systems, the organization delivers high-quality patient care across a diverse spectrum of medical specialties, including gastroenterology, ophthalmology and orthopedics. With a focus on strategic growth and innovation, AMSURG is committed to transforming the future of ambulatory surgery center care and services. To learn more about AMSURG, visit www.amsurg.com.

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AMSURG Contact:

Anna Peacock

Manager, Public Relations

AMSURG

Anna.Peacock@AMSURG.com

AMSURG Anesthesia Celebrates Teammates’ Role in Excellent Patient Care

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The AMSURG Anesthesia network is composed of skilled, team-centric anesthesia providers committed to quality care in ambulatory surgery.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) and anesthesiologists prioritize patient safety and provide optimal anesthesia care at AMSURG ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs).

Over a two-week period, AMSURG joins the nation in honoring these essential members of our healthcare team who collaborate with each center’s staff to create a supportive environment and advance best practices in anesthesia care.

Celebrating CRNAs for Their Dedication to Patient Care

During National CRNA Week (Jan. 19-25) AMSURG proudly celebrates these medical professionals for their dedication, expertise and unwavering commitment to outstanding patient care.

More than 700 CRNAs are affiliated with the AMSURG Anesthesia network. These individuals consistently provide exceptional care to our patients across more than 55 AMSURG ASCs.

One of these CRNAs is Evan Jones, who focuses on the well-being and care of patients at the Surgery Center of Volusia in Port Orange, Florida.

Jones said his 10-year affiliation with the AMSURG Anesthesia network has allowed him to grow professionally and network with other CRNAs while working independently.

“While working with AMSURG, one of my career highlights was helping to be a part of an ASC that has been recognized as one of the best in the nation [for 2024-2025] according to U.S. News & World Report, as well as being recognized as a ‘Center of Excellence,’” Jones said. “Knowing that my anesthesia practice helped assist in making this happen is very rewarding professionally.”

Center Administrator Jamie Whitmoor-Pryer, RN, CMSN, appreciates CRNA Eric Bartley’s dedication to Redding (California) Endoscopy Center and its patients. Bartley has been affiliated with AMSURG Anesthesia since 2014.

“Eric goes above and beyond for the center. He is always a part of our quarterly staff meetings, educating nurses and staff on different medications [and] sedation topics, and usually leads us through our mock code blue drills,” Whitmoor-Pryer said. “He is loved by all of the staff and deeply respected by the physicians. He is our ‘go-to’ guy for everything; [he] even helps fix things around the center, just because he can! He plays a vital role at our center!”

AMSURG Anesthesia Services Associate Vice President Ondee Whitman said CRNAs’ expertise and compassionate care go above and beyond every single day.

“Whether it’s ensuring patient comfort before a procedure, providing expert anesthesia management or being a calm presence in the operating room, these individuals exemplify the very best in patient-centered care,” she said. “We deeply value your advanced training, expertise and collaborative approach to patient care.”

Spotlighting Anesthesiologists for Their Hard Work, Compassion

During National Physician Anesthesiologists Week (Jan. 26-Feb. 1), AMSURG and the U.S. proudly celebrate these healthcare professionals who play an essential role in ensuring the safety, comfort and well-being of patients.

About 40 anesthesiologists are affiliated with the AMSURG Anesthesia network. These individuals deliver exceptional patient care before, during and after surgery at AMSURG ASCs.

One of these anesthesiologists is Steve Blicblum, MD, who works at Tampa Bay Endoscopy Center. Dr. Blicblum has been an affiliate of the AMSURG Anesthesia network for 13 years.

“At our ASC, we have direct, daily contact with our administrator who is proactive and high-energy and very responsive to patient needs and facility issues,” he said. “Working with AMSURG is and has been a pleasure because they are a corporation where you can find and actually talk to human beings who respond to problems quickly… Their #1 emphasis is patient safety, followed by #2 patient satisfaction and #3 staff satisfaction.”

Whitman said anesthesiologists’ skill and tireless contributions make the difference in the lives of our patients.

“We want to shine a spotlight on our physician anesthesiologists, whose hard work, compassion and unwavering dedication continue to make a profound impact in our ASCs,” she said. “You go above and beyond every day to provide outstanding patient care, and we are grateful for your expertise and commitment.”

AMSURG Anesthesia Partnerships Benefit Centers, Provide Career Opportunities

With over a decade of proven success in developing strategic and comprehensive anesthesia business models, AMSURG Anesthesia offers customized business development solutions to support the success of each of our partnerships’ anesthesia programs.

AMSURG Anesthesia helps CRNAs and anesthesiologists find the quality of life they’re seeking in a flexible and promising career path at premier surgery centers in highly desirable locations. These centers feature collaborative, supportive work environments and offer great opportunities for anyone looking for a new challenge or wanting to advance their careers.

If you are interested in joining the AMSURG Anesthesia network, our in-house recruiting team is here to help you find your best life and career path. Contact us at AnesRecruit@amsurg.com or 888.386.5524 to see what opportunities are available.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is the largest independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services, operating a network of more than 250 surgery centers nationwide. In partnership with physicians and health systems, the organization delivers high-quality patient care across a diverse spectrum of medical specialties, including gastroenterology, ophthalmology and orthopedics. With a focus on strategic growth and innovation, AMSURG is committed to transforming the future of ambulatory surgery center care and services. To learn more about AMSURG, visit amsurg.com.

AMSURG Expands in Northeast Texas with Acquisition of Texarkana Surgery Center

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NASHVILLE, Tennessee, January 23, 2025 — AMSURG, an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services, has acquired an ownership interest in Texarkana Surgery Center, an outpatient surgery center in northeast Texas, near the Arkansas border. The partnership will bring operational expertise, advanced clinical resources and strategic guidance to the center and its team of board-certified physicians.

“AMSURG’s acquisition of the Texarkana Surgery Center represents a continued commitment to delivering exceptional outpatient surgical care,” said John Lamberth, Chief Development Officer at AMSURG. “Their skilled team and proven record of prioritizing patient experience, in combination with our support, make this partnership a seamless fit that will provide valuable contributions to the community.”

Texarkana Surgery Center’s physicians offer same-day procedures in multiple specialties, including ophthalmology, orthopedics, gastroenterology, gynecology and general surgery. The freestanding, state-of-the-art facility spans 17,000 square feet and includes four operating rooms and three procedure rooms, ensuring patient convenience and comfort.

The center is currently open and accepting patients. If you or someone you know could benefit from Texarkana Surgery Center’s care and services, visit texarkanasurgerycenter.com or request an appointment.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services, operating a network of more than 250 surgery centers nationwide. In partnership with physicians and health systems, the organization delivers high-quality patient care across a diverse spectrum of medical specialties, including gastroenterology, ophthalmology and orthopedics. With a focus on strategic growth and innovation, AMSURG is committed to transforming the future of ambulatory surgery center care and services. To learn more about AMSURG, visit www.amsurg.com.

Cataract Surgery at AMSURG ASC Restores Patient’s Sight

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September is designated as Healthy Aging Month to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of vision loss.

Cataracts are the leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide and of vision loss in the United States.

In the winter of 2023, Lissette Gonzalez became one of an estimated 20.5 million Americans aged 40 years and older who have cataracts in one or both eyes.

Gonzalez, 50, noticed her vision in her right eye was slightly blurry. The Hudson County, New Jersey, woman made an appointment with ophthalmologist Hardik Parikh, MD, FAAO, at Palisade Eye Associates for a comprehensive eye exam.

“She came to me with a vision problem in her right eye,” Dr. Parikh said. “She wasn’t seeing clearly for the last few months. She was having a harder time working at her computer, tending to have to refocus constantly. Her vision at nighttime was also impacted. She was having a lot more glare than she was normally accustomed to.”

Dr. Parikh diagnosed Gonzalez with a posterior subcapsular cataract. This fast-developing cataract starts in the backmost part of the lens in the eye and blocks the center part of your vision where the light passes through.

A patient has two options when diagnosed with a cataract. They can wait and adjust their glasses or contacts or have cataract removal surgery. If not treated, cataracts may impair or cause complete loss of eyesight.

“I would definitely recommend the procedure,” Dr. Parikh said. “Cataract surgery overall is one of the safest procedures that we have in all of ophthalmology.”

Gonzalez determined her slightly blurry vision was manageable at that time and delayed cataract surgery. About 14 months after her initial diagnosis, Dr. Parikh said Gonzalez was experiencing light perception vision because of the fast-developing cataract.

“Even if we took a hand and waved it in front of her eye, going back and forth, she wouldn’t know that the hand was there,” he explained.

ASC Provides High-quality Outpatient Cataract Surgery

Gonzalez underwent cataract surgery on June 13 at River Drive Surgery and Laser Center in Elmwood Park, New Jersey, an AMSURG-affiliated ambulatory surgery center (ASC).

“River Drive Surgery and Laser Center is unique in that this center does only eye surgery,” Dr. Parikh said. “And so, every single person there — from the moment you enter the door to the nurse who’s discharging you and giving you your post-OP care instructions — is very familiar with eye surgery and knows exactly how to address questions and knows exactly what the patient’s concerns are.”

During cataract surgery, a doctor replaces the cloudy lens of a patient’s eye with an artificial lens. This intraocular lens (IOL) is a clear, plastic lens that becomes a permanent part of the eye.

Gonzalez selected a monofocal IOL, which helps with distance vision. With these lenses, you may still need glasses for reading or if you have astigmatism. Medicare and other insurance plans usually cover these IOLs.

Cataract surgery generally takes 15-20 minutes. The patient is usually at the ASC for about two hours.

“River Drive is an amazing place to operate, and the experience that it creates for patients is unparalleled,” Dr. Parikh said.

Gonzalez opted to undergo femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery. In this procedure, Dr. Parikh designed a specific surgical plan with a 3-D image of her eye, called optical coherence tomography (OCT).

“This is a computer-guided laser that helps with certain parts of the surgery,” Dr. Parikh said. “We’re using technology to better augment a surgeon’s hands, making tasks easier, more efficient, more predictable and more standardized. It also corrects low levels of astigmatism. Anything that really helps with the patient’s outcome at the end of the day is a win for us.”

Patient Praises ASC, Physician for Care

Today, Gonzalez said her vision is better than ever. Her right eye is 20/20.

“Laser-related surgery is really putting yourself in the hands of professionals that can deliver results,” she said. “I walked out of there being able to see again. I had my sight back.”

Gonzalez has new prescription glasses to accommodate her left eye, which also has a small cataract. She plans to return to River Drive Surgery and Laser Center when it’s time for cataract removal.

“The moment I see fuzziness, I’m not waiting,” she said. “I know I’ll be going there for the other eye. And I know that I’ll be in good hands.”

Dr. Parikh said ASCs offer high-quality outpatient medical procedures for his patients.

“Being at an ambulatory surgical center is such an efficient process, not only for the healthcare system but also for patients in terms of minimizing how much time they spend both in the operating room and the facility,” he said.

Prioritizing her eye care and cataract surgery at an ASC restored Gonzalez’s vision and quality of life.

“My only regret was not doing it sooner,” she said.

Partner with AMSURG

AMSURG surgery centers provide world-class care for patients every day, making us a leader in the ASC industry, performing more than 200,000 ophthalmology procedures annually.

Physicians can greatly benefit from a surgery center partnership with national reach and perspective. AMSURG, along with its extensive network of more than 2,400 physician partners across approximately 250 facilities, enables independent physicians to realize their personal and professional goals through innovative management, clinical support and strategic services.

Click here to learn how AMSURG is investing in the growth and development of physician partners and find a clear path to grow your skills and enhance your career today.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services, operating a network of approximately 250 surgery centers nationwide. In partnership with physicians and health systems, the organization delivers high-quality patient care across a diverse spectrum of medical specialties, including gastroenterology, ophthalmology and orthopedics. With a focus on strategic growth and innovation, AMSURG is committed to transforming the future of ambulatory surgery center care and services. To learn more about AMSURG, visit www.amsurg.com.

AMSURG, ASCs Observe Falls Prevention Week

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Each year in the U.S., 37.3 million falls are severe enough to require medical attention, according to the World Health Organization.

“Falls can be a source of serious injuries to patients in an ambulatory setting,” said AMSURG Sr. Director Clinical Risk/Patient Safety Stacy Bennett, BSN, MSPSL, CPPS. “The good news is that a majority of falls are preventable. We want to increase awareness around falls and provide safe, high-quality care to all our patients.”

AMSURG and its ambulatory surgery centers are observing Falls Prevention Awareness Week 2024 from Sept. 23-27. This nationwide observance is organized by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) and the Falls Free Initiative to raise awareness of fall prevention, reduce the risk of falls and help older adults live without fear of falling.

Patients may say they feel fine after surgery; however, sedation medication could increase the risk of falling. Simple precautions, like assisting patients with dressing or standing near them in the room as they dress, can prevent accidents.

A Proactive Approach to Patient Falls Prevention

Center Administrator Donna LaCardi and Director of Nursing Charlotte Palushaj wearing the t-shirts they designed for Fall Prevention AwarenessIn July 2024, AMSURG launched Fall Prevention Awareness Month to bring special attention to how our ambulatory surgery centers’ center administrators and staff could lead the charge to prevent patient falls.

Inspired by the campaign, Center Administrator Donna LaCardi and Director of Nursing Charlotte Palushaj designed and wore T-shirts featuring yellow non-skid socks that read, “Please Don’t Fall for Me.”

“Their project was to inform patients [and] increase awareness of falls in a fun and creative way,” Bennett said. “This center has gone 118 days without a fall.”

AMSURG recognized several centers for their dedication to preventing patient falls through a weekly email campaign in July.

Center administrator Beth Barros said all patients who are identified as potentially having an increasing fall risk are given different colored slippers as a unique and confidential identification for staff members.

“The slippers serve as a visual reminder to staff that these patients will require extra attention, care and time following anesthesia,” Barros said.

Barros said the staff has been very cooperative with this new policy.

“They will be excited to hear that due to their hard work, they are being recognized for this achievement,” she said. “Occasionally staff will need to be reminded, but that has become more rare.”

Center Administrator Erin Groff, MSN, BSN, RN, CAPA, said leadership sought out staff feedback about why falls may occur at the centers and then helped everyone implement realistic measures into their everyday practice.

“One of the factors the staff thought was predominant was patients not understanding how anesthesia would make them feel after their procedure. We recognize that our patient population is mostly healthy, independent adults who don’t think they need assistance with things like dressing,” Groff said. “We encourage staff to use language that comes easy to them during patient education, so they don’t feel like they are reading off a script, which makes it easier for them to incorporate the education points into their normal conversation with patients. We have found this also makes patients feel more at ease and comfortable with receiving assistance with tasks like getting dressed post procedure.”

Center Administrator Marie Russell, RN, said maintaining patient safety regarding falls is a priority.

“After encountering patient falls, we knew we had to adjust our process,” Russell said. “Ensuring the patient has access to assistance, is seated while getting dressed and is wearing fall resistant socks has helped decrease the number of falls at our center.”

AMSURG Supports ASCs for Falls Prevention Efforts

To assist our centers in their efforts to prevent falls, AMSURG created a patient falls prevention bundle of educational materials that includes fall risk assessment, post fall huddle debriefs, best practices and center posters.

“During the July fall prevention lunch and learn, we put a call to action for centers to take the ZERO harm pledge,” Bennett said. “We accomplished increased awareness [and] visibility and highlighted the importance of reporting.”

The AMSURG Clinical Support Team celebrates our centers’ dedication to patient care and safety during our observance of Falls Prevention Awareness Week and throughout the year.

“We are extremely proud of all the efforts centers provided surrounding fall prevention and diligence toward patient safety initiatives,” Bennett said.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services, operating a network of approximately 250 surgery centers nationwide. In partnership with physicians and health systems, the organization delivers high-quality patient care across a diverse spectrum of medical specialties, including gastroenterology, ophthalmology and orthopedics. With a focus on strategic growth and innovation, AMSURG is committed to transforming the future of ambulatory surgery center care and services. To learn more about AMSURG, visit amsurg.com.