87 AMSURG Centers Earn National Recognition From U.S. News & World Report

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Congratulations to the 87 AMSURG surgery centers named to U.S. News & World Report’s List of Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers!

This marks the third year U.S. News & World Report has ranked ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). AMSURG achieved a 36% increase in recognized centers compared to last year’s industry rankings.

The AMSURG surgery centers named to U.S. News’ 2026 Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers are:

Abilene Endoscopy Center Ambulatory Endoscopy Center of Maryland
Arizona Ophthalmic Outpatient Surgery Associated Endoscopy
Baptist Surgery and Endoscopy Centers, LLC Bend Surgery Center
Blue Ridge Surgery Center Campus Surgery 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 Dallas
Digestive Health Center of Plano Doctors Park Surgery Center
Eagle Eye Surgery & Laser Center East Bay Endosurgery Center
Eastern Massachusetts Surgery Center Endoscopic Surgical Centre of Maryland
Endoscopic Surgical Centre of Maryland North Endoscopy Center of Delaware
Endoscopy Center of Marin Endoscopy Center of Ocala
Endoscopy Center of Red Bank Endoscopy Center of the Central Coast
Endoscopy Center of the South Bay Essex Endoscopy Center LLC
Eye Surgery Center of Tulsa Florham Park Endoscopy Center
Gastroenterology Diagnostics of Northern New Jersey Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Associates (GIEA)
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Center Gulf Coast Endoscopy Center South
Harford Endoscopy Center Hudson Crossing Surgery Center
Lakeshore Eye Surgery Center Main Line Endoscopy Center Malvern
MGA Gastrointestinal Diagnostic and Therapeutic Center MGA Gastrointestinal Diagnostic and Therapeutic Center – Metairie
MidAtlantic Gastrointestinal Center (MAGIC) North Shore Endoscopy Center
North Valley Endoscopy Center Northeast Endoscopy Center
Northside Gastroenterology Endoscopy Center Oak Tree Surgery Center, LLC
Ocean Springs Surgical and Endoscopy Center Ocean Surgical Pavilion
Pacific Surgery Center Palm Endoscopy Center
Peninsula Endoscopy Center Poway Surgery Center
Premier Outpatient Surgery Center Raleigh Endoscopy Center
Seaside Endoscopy Pavilion Shepherd Eye Surgicenter
Space Coast Endoscopy Center Springfield Ambulatory Surgery Center
St. Thomas Medical Group Endoscopy Center Stonecreek Surgery Center, LLC
Sun City Endoscopy Center Suncoast Endoscopy Center
Surgery Center of Allentown Surgery Center of Long Beach
Surgery Center of Volusia Surgical Specialty Center of Northeastern PA
Templeton Endoscopy Center Texarkana Surgery Center, L.P.
The Center for Ambulatory Surgery The Endo Center at Voorhees
The Endoscopy Center – North The Endoscopy Center – West
The Endoscopy Center North The Eye Surgery Center of Paducah
The Glen Endoscopy Center The Orthopedic Surgery Center of Arizona
The Scranton Endoscopy Center The Surgery Center of Middle Tennessee
University Endoscopy Center Valley Digestive Health Center
Wake Forest Endoscopy Center Waldron Endoscopy Center
Waverley Surgery Center West Chester Endoscopy, LLC
Woodlands Endoscopy Center

We are proud to celebrate these 87 AMSURG centers for earning a spot on the competitive list. This honor reflects our deep commitment to our core values of caring deeply, cultivating integrity, championing excellence and celebrating teamwork.

Save the Date for Surgery Sessions With AMSURG!

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How do you stay up-to-date when things are moving fast in the ASC world?

AMSURG is committed to helping our centers and physicians stay aware of emerging technologies and best practices in the ASC space. An upcoming webinar will feature AMSURG-affiliated physicians from across the country sharing their experiences with new technologies and systems.

The event airs Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 7 to 8 p.m. CT.

Register to attend here: Surgery Sessions with AMSURG.

AMSURG Calls for Americans to Beat the Trend in Rising Colorectal Cancer Rates

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NASHVILLE, Tennessee, March 2, 2026 — With colorectal cancer rates on the rise among younger Americans, AMSURG, a national leader in ambulatory surgery services and gastrointestinal (GI) care, is reinforcing its commitment to increasing awareness of the disease. The company’s year-long “Beat the Trend” campaign seeks to educate and empower individuals to recognize the symptoms and begin colonoscopy screenings at age 45.

“The data is clear: Colorectal cancer is rising at an alarming rate in those under 50 and is now the leading cause of cancer death in the US for that population. Despite colon cancer being preventable with appropriate screening measures, too many patients are being diagnosed at later stages,” said AMSURG Chief Clinical Officer Abbey Vandersall, MD, MS. “By supporting more than 1,300 GI physicians across the nation who perform over a million colonoscopies a year at AMSURG centers, we are focused on reducing any barriers to care and making it easier for individuals to get screened at 45, take action sooner and, ultimately, beat the current trend of this disease.”

Some risk factors of colorectal cancer include being age 45 or older, living a sedentary lifestyle, eating a high-fat diet, smoking and drinking alcohol. While the disease can present symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool and abdominal pain, many cases have no warning signs until the cancer has advanced.

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.

AMSURG urges all individuals age 45 and older to beat the trend and schedule their colonoscopy today. To learn more about colorectal cancer prevention and screening or book your screening, visit StopColonCancerNow.com.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is a 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.

AMSURG Spotlights Our Skilled Anesthesia Network Teams

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Highly trained, collaborative anesthesia professionals in the AMSURG Anesthesia network deliver exceptional care in the ambulatory surgery setting.

Our network of more than 700 CRNAs and anesthesiologists deliver consistent, high-quality anesthesia care across more than 55 AMSURG ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) nationwide.

These dedicated professionals work closely with center teams to support a strong clinical environment and uphold best practices in anesthesia care.

“A heartfelt thank you to all our CRNAs and anesthesiologists at our AMSURG centers as we celebrate CRNA Week and PA Week,” said Tom Eicke, AMSURG SVP of Operations. “Every day, our CRNAs and anesthesiologists provide dedicated, confident care for our patients while supporting our clinical teams to create a safe and efficient experience. The CRNAs and anesthesiologists represent the backbone of safety, comfort and compassion, and we are honored to celebrate them not only this week but also every day.”

During the next two weeks, AMSURG honors these essential clinicians whose expertise and commitment play a central role in ensuring safe, dependable care for every patient we serve.

National Week Recognizes CRNA Dedication

AMSURG celebrates National CRNA Week Jan.18-24. We praise these medical professionals for their dedication, expertise and unwavering commitment to outstanding patient care. This year’s theme is “CRNAs: The Heart of Anesthesia.”

Organized each year by the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA), this week highlights the skill CRNAs bring to safe anesthesia care and their important role in shaping the future of the profession.

Two CRNAs in the AMSURG Anesthesia Network shared what they find most rewarding about their roles at AMSURG centers.

Chris M. has been a Lead CRNA at Mid-South Endoscopy Center in Columbia, Tennessee, since 2017.

“[What’s] most rewarding is being a part of the team that delivers a great product/service to our patients,” he said. “The high quality of care patients receive gives a sense of fulfillment.”

Since 2015, Bessie C. has been a Lead CRNA at Louisville Endoscopy Center.

“There is a stable staff and many times a family-like atmosphere,” she said. “When you’re in a room doing cases all day, you really get to know the nurse, tech and doctor you’re working with and care about what’s going on in their lives.”

National Week Celebrates Anesthesiologist Leadership

AMSURG recognizes the essential role anesthesiologists play in delivering safe, high-quality care.

Organized annually by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), AMSURG observes National Physician Anesthesiologists Week Jan. 25-31. This year’s theme is “Powering Innovation.”

During this observance, we highlight anesthesiologists’ leadership in advancing surgical safety, improving pain management and strengthening critical care at our ASCs.

AMSURG Anesthesia Partnerships Benefit Centers, Professionals

With more than a decade of experience building effective anesthesia business models, AMSURG Anesthesia delivers tailored solutions that strengthen partner programs and support long-term success.

Our network offers CRNAs and anesthesiologists a flexible, rewarding career path within leading ASCs in desirable markets. Our centers provide supportive, collaborative environments that encourage professional growth.

Professionals interested in joining the AMSURG Anesthesia network may contact our in-house recruiting team at AnesRecruit@amsurg.com or 888.386.5524 to see what opportunities are available.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is a 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.

44 AMSURG Centers Named to Newsweek’s 2026 List of America’s Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers

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NASHVILLE, Tennessee, Jan. 13, 2026 — 44 AMSURG centers have been named to Newsweek’s 2026 list of America’s Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers. The sixth annual rankings, developed in partnership with Statista, recognize the nation’s leading ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) following an analysis of more than 5,000 centers on the state and regional levels.

“Each center named to this prestigious list plays a part in representing the dedication, expertise and compassion that define AMSURG,” said AMSURG President and CEO Jeff Snodgrass. “We are proud to celebrate these teams for their outstanding commitment to exceeding the standard in outpatient surgical care while making a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients.”

The AMSURG centers named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers 2026 list are as follows:

  • Abilene Endoscopy Center
  • Abilene Cataract and LASIK Surgery Center
  • Advanced Endoscopy & Surgical Center, LLC
  • Airport Endoscopy Center
  • Ambulatory Endoscopy Center of Maryland
  • Arizona Endoscopy Center
  • Baptist Health Endoscopy Center at Flagler
  • Baptist Health Endoscopy Center at Galloway North
  • Baptist Health Surgery Center at South Palm
  • Bardmoor Surgery Center
  • BayCare Surgery Center
  • Bend Surgery Center
  • Center for Digestive Endoscopy
  • Digestive Health Center of Dallas
  • East Bay Endosurgery Center
  • Eastern Massachusetts Surgery Center
  • Endoscopic Surgical Centre of Maryland
  • Endoscopic Surgical Centre of Maryland North
  • Endoscopy Center of Marin
  • Endoscopy Center of the South Bay
  • Harford Endoscopy Center
  • Hudson Crossing Surgery Center
  • La Jolla Endoscopy Center
  • Louisiana Endoscopy Center
  • Manatee Surgical Center
  • Maryland Endoscopy Center
  • Maryland Surgery Center
  • MGA Gastrointestinal Diagnostic and Therapeutic Center
  • North Metro Surgery Center
  • North Shore Endoscopy Center
  • Orthopaedic Surgery Center
  • Peninsula Endoscopy Center
  • Premier Endoscopy, LLC
  • Raleigh Endoscopy Center – Cary
  • Red River Surgery Center
  • River Drive Surgery & Laser Center
  • Short Hills Surgery Center
  • Surgery Center of Allentown
  • Surgery Center of Long Beach
  • Tampa Bay Endoscopy Center
  • The Endo Center at Voorhees
  • The Livingston Surgery Center
  • Waverley Surgery Center
  • Weston Outpatient Surgical Center

The leading 700 centers were selected based on an evaluation of their quality of care, performance data, patient experience and peer recommendations, relative to in-state competition. The 2026 edition incorporates updates such as four new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) analysis measures, the inclusion of nine additional standout specialties, increased quality metrics weighting and more.

“This honor is a result of the collective effort of our physicians, nurses and staff who work tirelessly to deliver outstanding patient experiences and clinical outcomes,” shared AMSURG Chief Clinical Officer Abbey Vandersall, M.D., M.S. “Their continued unwavering commitment to our core values and to serving their communities are what make this recognition possible.”

To learn more about AMSURG and its award-winning centers, visit www.amsurg.com.

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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.

 

AMSURG Centers Earn National Recognition in 2025 Press Ganey Human Experience Awards

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NASHVILLE, Tennessee, Jan. 7, 2026 — AMSURG, a leader in ambulatory surgery center services, celebrates the recognition of three centers named to the 2025 Human Experience Awards by Press Ganey, the global leader in healthcare experience solutions and service. These recognitions are grounded in the rigorous standards that leverage comprehensive, benchmarked data to honor top performers across the care continuum.

This year, the following AMSURG centers were selected based on sustained performance and outstanding patient experience scores:

  • McCannel Eye Surgery (Edina, Minnesota) — Guardian of Excellence Award
  • Blue Ridge Surgery Center (Seneca, South Carolina) — Guardian of Excellence Award
  • Woodlands Endoscopy Center (Woodlands, Texas) — Pinnacle of Excellence Award

The Guardian of Excellence Award recognizes an honor roll of organizations that have achieved the 95th percentile or higher for each service on at least one of the designated survey measures each quarter over a one-year period. Both AMSURG centers named to the list are first-time recipients.

The Pinnacle of Excellence Award recognizes the three highest performing organizations within each peer group and service based on the average of the designated survey measures over a three-year period. Woodlands Endoscopy Center has been recognized in the annual Press Ganey Human Experience Awards for three consecutive years in a row.

“These honors speak to the heart of who our teams are,” said AMSURG Chief Clinical Officer Abbey Vandersall, M.D., M.S. “They show up for their patients day-in and day-out with deep compassion and a continuous commitment to delivering the best care possible. I am thrilled to see each of these centers recognized through these remarkable national honors as their work makes a visible impact on their respective communities.”

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

About AMSURG

AMSURG is a 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

 

 

AMSURG Enters Central Pennsylvania Market With New Acquisition

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NASHVILLE, Tennessee, Dec. 9, 2025 — AMSURG, a leader in ambulatory surgery center services, announces the expansion of its portfolio within the Pennsylvania market with the acquisition of Advanced Center for Surgery. The partnership marks the company’s first center in the central region of the state and reflects its continued commitment to supporting independent physician groups while expanding access to high-quality outpatient surgical care.

The 12,500 square-foot facility sits at 3280 Pleasant Valley Boulevard in Altoona and is home to four operating rooms. The center’s 17 physicians are experts in a range of specialties, such as orthopedics, podiatry, and ear, nose and throat procedures. Since opening its doors, Advanced Center for Surgery has achieved a number of noteworthy achievements, including becoming the first ambulatory surgical center in the state to perform outpatient total joint replacements.

“We are honored to welcome the Advanced Center for Surgery team to the AMSURG network,” said John Lamberth, Chief Development Officer at AMSURG. “This center has built a strong reputation for increasing access to patient-centered surgical care. We look forward to collaborating with them to support their momentum, broaden their impact and help meet the growing need for outpatient surgery in the area.”

The center is currently open and accepting patients. To learn more about Advanced Center for Surgery’s services or to make an appointment, visit advancedcenterforsurgery.com.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is a 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

Jeff Snodgrass Featured in Becker’s ASC Review

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In a recent feature, Becker’s ASC Review sat down with AMSURG President and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Snodgrass to discuss industry trends and the company’s future.

“Over the past few years, AmSurg has focused on diversifying our portfolio mix, broadening service lines, expanding our health system partnerships, reinforcing our commitment to independent physician practices and enhancing our management company value proposition to ensure we optimize surgery center performance for patients, partners and payers.

Most importantly, our people are an essential component of our value proposition. We have invested heavily in our team and culture and describe our organization as very mission focused on our centers and patients. We fully expect the Ascension acquisition will only advance and accelerate these objectives.”

Read the full article here.

AMSURG Center Earns Prestigious Orthopedic Certification

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NASHVILLE, Tennessee, Nov. 6, 2025 — AMSURG, a leader in ambulatory surgery center services, proudly announces Hudson Crossing Surgery Center has received the Advanced Orthopaedic Certification (AOC) from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). The national distinction recognizes outstanding performance in orthopedic surgical care and a commitment to higher level quality expectations set by experts within the field.

“This honor reflects more than meeting rigorous standards. It highlights the unwavering commitment to collaboration, innovation and optimization amongst our teams, resulting in award-winning patient care,” shared AMSURG Chief Clinical Officer Abbey Vandersall, MD, MS. “Congratulations to Hudson Crossing Surgery Center and every teammate, each of whom played a vital role in achieving this remarkable certification.”

Advanced Orthopaedic Certification is only awarded to AAAHC-accredited organizations that demonstrate excellence in clinical practice, ongoing performance improvement strategies, patient outcomes and organizational infrastructure. Hudson Crossing Surgery Center is the first center in the state of New Jersey to receive the honor.

“Achieving this certification is a testament to the relentless commitment of our entire team. It not only speaks to our clinical excellence and dedication to patient safety but also to the power of teamwork and efficiency across every role in our center,” said Brandon Hollis, Vice President of Operations at AMSURG. “The thorough certification process ensures that we meet the highest standards in orthopedic care, and this accomplishment elevates us as leaders in delivering exceptional outcomes. I am extremely proud of the collective effort that made this possible.”

The certification process includes an onsite survey conducted by experienced clinical surveyors and input from a multidisciplinary panel of orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, physical therapists and quality experts. Receiving this distinction places Hudson Crossing Surgery Center among a select group of facilities nationwide that have demonstrated superior performance in orthopedic surgical care.

To learn more about AMSURG and its award-winning centers, visit www.amsurg.com.

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About AMSURG

AMSURG is a 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.

About AAAHC

Founded in 1979, AAAHC is the leader in ambulatory health care accreditation, with more than 6,800 organizations accredited. We accredit a wide range of outpatient settings, including ambulatory surgery centers, office-based surgery facilities, endoscopy centers, student health centers, medical and dental group practices, community health centers, employer-based health clinics, retail clinics, and Indian/Tribal health centers, among others.

AAAHC advocates for the provision of high-quality health care through the development and adoption of nationally recognized standards. We provide a valuable survey experience founded on a peer-based, educational approach to onsite review. The AAAHC Certificate of Accreditation, along with specialized programs including Advanced Orthopaedic Certification and Patient-Centered Medical Home Certification, demonstrates an organization’s commitment to providing safe, high-quality services to its patients—every day of the 1,095-day accreditation cycle. AAAHC Accreditation and Certification Programs are recognized by third-party payors, medical professional associations, liability insurance companies, state and federal agencies, and the public. For more information on AAAHC, please visit www.aaahc.org.

Trust Your Gut. Your Symptoms Could Be Colon Cancer.

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Feeling unwell? If you have noticed unexpected weight loss, changes in your digestion or anything unusual when you use the bathroom, trust your gut and take those symptoms seriously. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing in people in their 20s, 30s and 40s.

Study Analyzes Young Adult Patients With Rectal Bleeding

Between 2021 and 2023, 443 adults younger than 50 were experiencing rectal bleeding and underwent a colonoscopy at the University of Louisville Health System in Kentucky. Forty-four percent of the patients were diagnosed with early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC).

Researchers conducted a retrospective study analyzing those patients and presented the findings at the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Clinical Congress 2025.

“This research lends support to the question of who does or doesn’t warrant a colonoscopy. If you have a person below the screening age with rectal bleeding, you should seriously consider a colonoscopy,” said senior author Sandra Kavalukas, M.D., FACS, a colorectal surgeon at the University of Louisville School of Medicine.

Symptoms Dismissed as Perimenopausal

Inverness, Florida, pharmacist Karen Fisher noticed blood in her stool but was perimenopausal and dismissed it as spotting between periods.

When she tried to donate blood in May 2020, she was turned away because her hemoglobin level was low. After blood tests revealed she had iron deficiency anemia, her family doctor ordered a colonoscopy to determine the cause.

AMSURG physician partner and gastroenterologist Trupti Shinde, M.D., performed the colonoscopy at AMSURG’s Citrus Endoscopy and Surgery Center in nearby Crystal River and found a 5 cm mass in Fisher’s colon.

Fisher was 54 when she was diagnosed with Stage 2A colorectal cancer.

“If I had been screened on time, they may have found a polyp [and] removed it, and I would have gone on with my life as normal,” she said.

Doctors were able to remove the tumor, and she did not require radiation or chemotherapy.

Survivor Celebrates 5-year Colon Cancer-versary

Following her diagnosis, Fisher adopted a healthier lifestyle and diet. This summer, however, she celebrated her five-year cancer-versary on July 12 with a special menu.

“Prior to diagnosis, I was a chocoholic and didn’t always eat very healthy. The day they found a mass in my colon, I decided to give up junk food and sodas and eat healthier,” she said. “At my party, I decided to celebrate with chocolate and junk food — all the things I had given up for five years.”

Even with all the sugary treats, Fisher said her celebration was bittersweet.

“While I was happy to be five years cancer free, I struggled a little with survivor’s guilt since some of my colon cancer friends were still fighting Stage 4 on a daily basis,” she said.

Today, Fisher donates her time at the Citrus Colorectal Cancer Foundation, which she co-founded with her surgeon, Parth Patel, M.D., and Dr. Shinde.

“I feel like God had a plan for me to get diagnosed with colon cancer so I could help others,” Fisher said.

Prioritize Your Colorectal Cancer Screening

Even more so than diet or exercise, early detection through regular screening is the most effective way to prevent colorectal cancer. Experts recommend adults at average risk for CRC start screening at age 45, even if they don’t have symptoms.

People who have a family history of the disease or a history of precancerous polyps may need to be screened earlier. Regardless of your age, if you have digestive system issues, visit your doctor.

Colorectal cancer often begins as a growth, called a polyp, inside the colon or rectum. Although there are several screening options, Fisher recommends a quality colonoscopy, the only test where polyps can be both detected and removed before they become cancerous.

“If you see blood in the toilet, you need to tell your doctor about it. It might only be hemorrhoids, but the only way to find out for sure is to have a colonoscopy,” Fisher said. “Never let them tell you that you are too young. No one is too young for colon cancer.”

Anyone who receives a positive stool test or colorectal cancer blood test needs a follow-up colonoscopy.

AMSURG ambulatory surgery centers are located nationwide and offer patients a more attractive option for colonoscopy screening with easy access, personalized care and a relaxed atmosphere.

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.