U.S. News & World Report Names 57 AMSURG Ambulatory Surgery Centers Among Inaugural Edition of Best in Nation

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AMSURG Surgery Centers recognized as best in class for safety, patient outcomes and more.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — June 18, 2024 — AMSURG, a leader in ambulatory surgery center services, announces 57 of its surgery centers have been recognized by the U.S. News & World Report among the 2024 Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers nationwide. The debut ratings of outpatient surgical centers offer consumers a data-informed resource when seeking outpatient surgical care.

“Every day, AMSURG surgery centers provide world-class care for patients, making us a leader in multiple outpatient surgery operations,” said Jeff Snodgrass, president and chief executive officer of AMSURG. “U.S. News’ recognizing 57 AMSURG partners highlights the excellent work accomplished day in and day out by our teams across the country. Congratulations to all those named to the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers list for 2024.”

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

Affiliated Endoscopy Services of Clifton Arizona Endoscopy Center
Associated Endoscopy Baptist Health Surgery Center at South Palm
Bend Surgery Center Blue Ridge Surgery Center
Casa Colina 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 Digestive Health Center of Dallas
East Bay Endosurgery Center Eastern Massachusetts Surgery Center
EndoCentre of Baltimore Endoscopic Imaging Center
Endoscopic Surgical Centre of Maryland Endoscopy Center of the Central Coast
Endoscopy Center of the South Bay Endoscopy Center of Washington D.C.
Endo-Surgi of Union ASC, LLC Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Associates (GIEA)
Glen Endoscopy Center Gulf Coast Endoscopy Center South
Harford Endoscopy Center Hudson Crossing Surgery Center
Lakeshore Eye Surgery Center Main Line Endoscopy Center West
MGA Gastrointestinal Diagnostic & Therapeutic Center – Metairie Mid-Atlantic Gastrointestinal Center II (MAGIC II)
North Metro Surgery Center Northfield Surgical Center
Northside Gastroenterology Endoscopy Center Northwest Florida Gastroenterology Center
Oak Lawn Endoscopy Center Outpatient Surgery Center of Boca Raton
Pacific Eye Surgery Center Palm Endoscopy Center
Phoenix Endoscopy, LLC Premier Outpatient Surgery Center
Raleigh Endoscopy Center – Cary River Drive Surgery & Laser Center
Salem Laser and Surgery Center Shepherd Eye Surgicenter
Surgery Center of Allentown Surgery Center of Kansas
Surgery Center of Volusia The Endoscopy Center North
The Eye Surgery Center of Paducah The Scranton Endoscopy Center
Thunderbird Endoscopy Center University Endoscopy Center
Waverley Surgery Center West Chester Endoscopy, LLC
Woodlands Endoscopy Center

U.S. News and CareJourney rated nearly 5,000 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, including Gastroenterology, Orthopedics and Ophthalmology.

“Empowering consumers to make data-driven informed decisions is at the core of U.S. News’ mission,” said Sumita Singh, senior vice president and general manager of Healthcare at U.S. News. “This collaboration with CareJourney on U.S. News’ ratings of Ambulatory Surgery Centers provides patients the data transparency they deserve. Now, anyone facing an outpatient procedure has access to information that can help them, in conjunction with their medical professional, make decisions about possible surgical procedures they may need.”

“Same-day procedures play an increasingly vital role in the health care landscape. U.S. News’ debut ratings of Ambulatory Surgery Centers, built on robust data analysis with CareJourney, provide the insights patients need to navigate their health care journey with confidence,” said Ben Harder, chief of health analysis and managing editor at U.S. News.

For more information on the U.S. News’ Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers ratings, explore Facebook and Instagram using #BestASCs.

AMSURG Announces Two Additions to Executive Team

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The organization rounds out its executive leadership team, welcoming Susan Byrd, MHRD, as chief human resources officer and Keith Hennegan, MBA, as chief operating officer.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Dec. 11, 2023 – AMSURG, a leader in ambulatory surgery center services, announces two appointments to its executive leadership team. Susan Byrd, MHRD, has been appointed as chief human resources officer (CHRO) at AMSURG, officially joining the organization on Dec. 4. Additionally, Keith Hennegan, MBA, has been appointed as chief operating officer (COO), assuming the position effective today.

AMSURG welcomes Byrd and Hennegan to the organization, where their experience, expertise and leadership will play a key role in guiding the growth, development and success of the company’s teams and services in the years to come.

“Susan and Keith bring a passion for serving and developing others to our executive team,” said Jeff Snodgrass, president and chief executive officer of AMSURG. “They are both committed to our organization’s mission and values, and I’m excited for our teams to benefit from their proven leadership, which will ultimately have a positive impact on the value and experience we provide patients.”

As the CHRO of AMSURG, Byrd brings more than 25 years of human capital experience, building strategies for growth, change and company culture in public and private settings. Before joining AMSURG, she served as chief people officer at SpecialtyCare. Byrd has also held HR roles in and out of the health care sector, including as senior vice president of human resources at Change Healthcare (previously Emdeon), as well as Dell Computers, SunTrust Bank and Bosch. Byrd is also a published author, writing Human Resources Leadership, Alignment, and Trends—Inside the Minds: HR Leadership Strategies and The Accountable Human Resources Department: Delivering Strategic Programs That Contribute to the Bottom Line.

“As a people leader for more than three decades, I’m honored to join AMSURG and excited to work with such talented and passionate employees and team members,” Byrd said. “This is an exciting time of growth and innovation for the organization and everyone who is a part of it, and I look forward to continuing the organization’s focus of being a great place to work for all.”

Serving as COO of AMSURG, Hennegan has extensive experience in multisite health care operations, mergers, acquisitions and investing. Before joining AMSURG, Hennegan was the COO at US Fertility, where he led operations, human resources and marketing for the nation’s largest partnership of physician-owned and physician-led top-tier fertility practices. He held multiple roles with DaVita Inc., where he oversaw a portfolio of clinics in Louisiana and southeast Texas, most recently as division vice president. Before transitioning into health care, Hennegan worked at RoundTable Healthcare Partners, a middle-market private equity fund, and was in the global mergers and acquisitions investment banking group at Deutsche Bank.

“It’s a pleasure to join the AMSURG leadership team and be a part of advancing the organization’s commitment to continuous improvement, operational excellence and growth,” Hennegan said. “AMSURG has proven to be a leader in the ambulatory surgery center space, providing high-quality care and experiences to patients. I’m looking forward to the many opportunities ahead for the organization to impact patients, teammates and physician partners.”

With this announcement, AMSURG rounds out its executive leadership team.

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 Announces Board of Directors

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The organization adds seven healthcare industry and business professionals to its Board of Directors.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nov. 30, 2023 – AMSURG, a leader in ambulatory surgery center services, announced appointments to the organization’s Board of Directors. The announcement comes after a successful emergence as an independent company under new leadership and positioned for growth.

Seven members will serve on the AMSURG Board of Directors:

  • David King, previous chairman, CEO and president of LabCorp who led the organization’s transformation into a leading global life sciences company. Under King’s leadership, LabCorp completed a series of successful acquisitions, tripling the company’s size to 60,000 employees operating in 120 countries. The company’s share price increased by more than 125% during King’s time as CEO. King has been appointed as chair of the AMSURG Board of Directors, and he will also serve on the Compensation Committee.
  • Jeff Snodgrass, president and CEO of AMSURG who recently led the organization through a successful restructuring process. Before AMSURG, Snodgrass served as president and CEO of Azura Vascular Care and National Cardiology Partners, leading the organization to unprecedented growth and transformation from an office-based outpatient business to an ambulatory surgical care company. Snodgrass also served as chief financial officer at inVentiv Health, and he spent more than 17 years at Merck & Co. in several leadership positions in finance and marketing.
  • Molly Joseph, former CEO of UnitedHealthcare Global. During her 16-year tenure at UnitedHealth Group, she pioneered the establishment of the company’s global health business into one of the largest health benefits and medical delivery businesses outside of the United States. She also oversaw 55 hospitals and several hundred ambulatory centers, with over nine million patients and seven million insurance members. Currently, Joseph is the founder and managing partner of Cypress Pass Ventures, an investment and advisory firm focused on health modernization. She also serves on the Board of Directors of West Pharmaceutical Services, First Solar and U.S. Radiology Specialists and is vice-chair of the Board of Trustees at Santa Clara University.
  • Adam Hieber, executive vice president and global head of corporate asset management at PIMCO. Before PIMCO, he was an operating partner and head of portfolio performance management for SoftBank and managing director and president of Cerberus Capital Management’s global operating team. He has also held numerous board appointments and senior management positions including chairman, CEO, CFO and CRO. He has been appointed Chair of the AMSURG Compensation Committee.
  • Joel Day, former chief financial officer at Kindred Healthcare and Scion Healthcare. In these roles, Day successfully led significant value creation initiatives, partnered with multiple private equity firms to complete a company sale and the formation of a new company and provided support and oversight on a 15-hospital acquisition. Before serving as CFO, Day spent 25 years in various finance leadership roles with Kindred Healthcare, including as operations CFO for six years, where he was responsible for the support and operational results of seven business lines with over $7 billion in revenue. In addition to serving as an AMSURG board member, Day will serve on the AMSURG Audit Committee.
  • Lisa A. Pollina, former vice chairman for RBC Capital Markets. Pollina has been named a ‘Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Finance’ by American Banker and has negotiated over $50 billion in corporate development deals globally throughout her career. She serves on the Board of Directors for Munich RE representing the Americas, as well as the Board of the Atlantic Council of the United States. She is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and an advisor to ARES Management. Pollina has extensive corporate board and committee experience and has been appointed Chair of the AMSURG Audit Committee.
  • Leopoldo Quintas Jr., former three-star deputy commanding general of U.S. Army Forces Command. In this role, Quintas led day-to-day operations of the Army’s largest organization, comprised of more than 750,000 soldiers and civilians. Under his leadership, the organization transformed its readiness and operations to achieve unprecedented modernization while sustaining uninterrupted support to worldwide requirements. He has more than three decades of experience training, equipping and supporting personnel and employing capabilities, to include conduct of comprehensive health care both at home and abroad. Today, Quintas serves on the board of the West Point Association of Graduates and continues to support the U.S. Army as a highly qualified expert.

“I am thrilled to have such seasoned and accomplished professionals serving on the AMSURG Board of Directors,” said Jeff Snodgrass, president and CEO of AMSURG. “These leaders provide a wealth of industry knowledge and business expertise that complements our strong leadership team. I look forward to working alongside them to enhance our growth opportunities and continue to provide quality care for patients.”

The board composition underscores AMSURG’s commitment to continue to advance its leadership in high quality ambulatory surgery care. The Board of Directors will play a key role in providing strategic counsel and guidance to AMSURG leaders as the organization focuses on growth, innovation and delivering high-quality patient care.

“It is an honor to join the AMSURG Board of Directors,” said David King, chair of AMSURG’s Board of Directors. “AMSURG is a leader in the ambulatory surgery center space that is poised for growth and innovation. I am excited to partner with the leadership team on the many opportunities ahead for the organization.”

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 Positioned for Growth as an Independent Company

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The organization exits the financial restructuring process poised for growth and focused on the future.

Nashville, Tenn. – AMSURG, a leader in ambulatory surgery center services, announced today its successful emergence from its restructuring process. AMSURG emerges under new ownership as a separate and independent entity from Envision Healthcare. This marks a new chapter in AMSURG’s history, focused on growth, innovation and delivering high-quality patient care across a diverse spectrum of medical specialties—from gastroenterology to ophthalmology and orthopedics.

This transition provides AMSURG with unique opportunities to elevate its operations, build on recent successes, and enhance its strategic focus. As a result of its successful emergence from its restructuring process, current AMSURG President Jeff Snodgrass will now serve as AMSURG President and CEO.

“Today begins an exciting new era for our organization,” said Snodgrass. “AMSURG is at a critical point in our history with a bright path ahead of us for growth and innovation in the ambulatory surgery space. We are looking forward to expanding our footprint, investing in our infrastructure and our teams, and enhancing value for our centers and patients.”

AMSURG will focus on 4 key objectives for its future growth and development:

  1. Commitment to High-Quality Patient Care: The company remains steadfast in its dedication to maintaining the highest standards of patient care, safety and satisfaction as it continues to expand its suite of services. AMSURG is poised and committed to embracing cutting-edge technologies and innovative healthcare solutions to support its physician partners, improve operational efficiency and enhance patient experiences.
  2. Cultivating Strategic Partnerships: AMSURG will continue to actively seek strategic partnerships and collaborations with healthcare providers, payors and other stakeholders to foster innovation, drive healthcare excellence and improve care for patients.
  3. Enhanced Financial Stability: AMSURG’s successful restructuring has fortified its financial position, building upon its solid foundation for sustained growth and strategic investments.
  4. Teammate Development: Recognizing the pivotal role its teammates play in driving success, AMSURG is committed to investing in the growth and development of teammates in and beyond its centers, reflecting the organization’s dedication to nurturing a skilled and empowered workforce.

“I am incredibly proud of the team here at AMSURG for their hard work and dedication to our centers, our partners and our patients,” added Snodgrass. “This process has required an unmatched level of teamwork and thoughtfulness—thank you to all who played a part. I am also grateful to the physician partners and staff in our centers for their unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality patient care.”

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 care for patients 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.

For media inquiries, please contact media@amsurg.com.

Envision Healthcare Announces Successful Confirmation of Plans of Reorganization

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Expects to exit with significantly deleveraged balance sheet and a focus on growth as a leading medical group

Nashville, Tenn. – (October 11, 2023) – Envision Healthcare today announced that the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas, Houston Division has confirmed its Plans of Reorganization (the “Confirmed Plans”).

Under the terms of the Confirmed Plans, which were approved at a hearing on October 11, 2023, Envision will eliminate 70 percent of its prepetition funded debt. Importantly, the Confirmed Plans ensure that Envision and AMSURG will remain strong partners to their valued clinicians, physician partners, clients, vendors and suppliers following the reorganization.

“I am pleased to have reached an agreement with our key stakeholders and look forward to emerging from Chapter 11 in the coming weeks,” said Envision Healthcare CEO Jim Rechtin. “The Confirmed Plans allow Envision to emerge from the process in a strong position to navigate the current healthcare environment and take advantage of future opportunities to grow while continuing to deliver high quality care to patients when they need it most. On behalf of our leadership team, I give my deepest gratitude to our clinicians, teammates, hospital partners, vendors and creditors for working through this process.”

Upon emergence in the coming weeks, Envision Healthcare and AMSURG will be separated into two stand-alone entities with separate leadership teams and owner groups. “I appreciate the collaboration with Envision leaders that has brought us to this point,” said AMSURG President Jeff Snodgrass. “We have built strong momentum as an organization that will propel our path to growth. I look forward to AMSURG’s next chapter and am grateful for the efforts of our teams, centers and physician partners that drive our success.”

The organization anticipates finalizing definitive transaction documents to consummate the Confirmed Plans over the coming weeks, subject to customary closing procedures and conditions. Envision anticipates emergence from Chapter 11 proceedings by the end of October 2023.

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Advisors
Kirkland & Ellis LLP is acting as legal counsel, Alvarez & Marsal LLC is acting as financial advisor, and PJT Partners LP is acting as investment banker to the organization in connection with the restructuring.

About Envision Healthcare Corporation
Envision Healthcare Corporation is a leading national medical group that delivers physician and advanced practice provider services, primarily in the areas of emergency and hospitalist medicine, anesthesiology, radiology/teleradiology and neonatology. As a leader in ambulatory surgical care, AMSURG holds ownership in more than 250 surgery centers with medical specialties ranging from gastroenterology to ophthalmology and orthopedics. In total, the medical group offers a differentiated suite of clinical solutions on a national scale with a local understanding of our communities, creating value for health systems, payers, providers and patients. For additional information, visit www.envisionhealth.com.

Envision Healthcare and Its Charitable Fund Donate $4 Million to More Than 50 Organizations

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Envision Healthcare, a leading national medical group, today announced that Envision, along with the Envision Healthcare Charitable Fund (the “Charitable Fund”), has contributed more than $4 million in 2022 to more than 50 charitable organizations supporting the health of communities across the United States and the globe.

“It is truly an honor to work with so many talented people who care deeply about supporting one another and the communities we serve,” said AMSURG President and Envision Healthcare Charitable Fund Chair Jeff Snodgrass. “We are pleased to invest our collective time, resources and expertise to support and uplift those in need.”

The team has contributed to several organizations dedicated to providing much-needed services locally, nationally and globally. Some of the initiatives include, but are not limited to:

  • Championing clinician well-being efforts that are working to mitigate burnout among healthcare professionals and safeguard their mental health.
  • Providing medication and medical support to communities impacted by the devastating flooding in Pakistan.
  • Providing individual first aid kits to medical personnel on the frontlines in Ukraine and cardiology surgical supplies to Ukrainian hospitals.
  • Sending medical teams to the Dominican Republic and Honduras to provide essential care to communities in need.
  • Supporting nationwide efforts to educate the public about gastrointestinal health and preventing colorectal cancer – the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S.
  • Providing supplies to communities impacted by Hurricane Ian – a destructive Category 4 hurricane that tore through Florida and South Carolina.

In August 2022, about 370 clinical and clinical support Envision teammates gathered in Colorado, Florida, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Texas to build more than 1,600 health and hygiene kits with essentials, such as soap, toothpaste and deodorant. Envision teams across the country led a similar effort in December 2022, assembling smile kits with oral care products to give to underserved youth. In addition, more than 300 Envision teammates have written notes of encouragement to first responders, teachers, students, veterans and patients throughout the year.

“Thank you to everyone at Envision for stepping up in so many ways to make a difference in people’s lives,” said Jim Rechtin, Chief Executive Officer of Envision Healthcare. “Our team’s sense of duty is profound and inspiring. I’m proud to be a part of an organization that focuses on serving others. Our actions have a meaningful impact, and I’m confident we’ll continue making progress on improving health equity in communities across the U.S. and the world.”

Since 2020, Envision, together with the Charitable Fund, has contributed more than $8 million in donations to support healthcare-related philanthropic initiatives focusing on care for those in need, research, education and community action locally, nationally and globally. It supports programs, including but not limited to disaster response initiatives, global mission trips, health and wellness programs, hospital foundations, medical research and awareness campaigns. The Charitable Fund is a registered 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization organized and operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes.

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About Envision Healthcare Corporation
Envision Healthcare Corporation is a leading national medical group that delivers physician and advanced practice provider services, primarily in the areas of emergency and hospitalist medicine, anesthesiology, radiology/teleradiology, and neonatology to more than 1,800 clinical departments in healthcare facilities in 45 states and the District of Columbia. As a leader in ambulatory surgical care, AMSURG holds ownership in more than 250 surgery centers in 34 states and the District of Columbia, with medical specialties ranging from gastroenterology to ophthalmology and orthopedics. In total, the medical group offers a differentiated suite of clinical solutions on a national scale with a local understanding of our communities, creating value for health systems, payers, providers, and patients. For additional information, visit www.envisionhealth.com.

Envision Healthcare’s Inaugural Clinical Impact Report Details High-Quality Patient Care Initiatives

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Envision Healthcare, a leading national medical group, today released its 2021 Clinical Impact Report, highlighting its impact on patients’ lives and communities across the country last year. The full report is available at EnvisionHealth.com/Impact-Report.

“In 2021, we remained on the frontlines for patients, exceeding national care quality benchmarks and implementing new programs that improve patients’ access to the right care at the right time,” said Jim Rechtin, Chief Executive Officer of Envision Healthcare. “We also made strides in enhancing our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Clinician Wellness programs. While there is no way to measure the true impact the Envision team has had on the millions of people we serve, this inaugural report provides a snapshot of the many ways we make a difference.”

Envision’s 2021 Clinical Impact Report demonstrates how Envision is providing care when and where it’s needed most. Last year, the Envision team rose to the many unique demands for care and drove positive changes within the U.S. healthcare system. Grounded in its commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care, the team continued combating the COVID-19 pandemic, responded to natural disasters and humanitarian crises and advanced innovative care approaches.

Envision remains focused on elevating the voices of clinicians and patients and championing solutions that improve the healthcare system for everyone. As the medical group moves forward in 2022, it will continue protecting the patient-clinician relationship, caring deeply for everyone and centering its actions on advancing the delivery of safe, quality care.

Making a Positive Impact
From providing lifesaving care to preventing colon cancer to welcoming newborns into the world, Envision is uniquely positioned to have a positive impact on millions of people in the U.S. In 2021, Envision’s 30,000 clinical and clinical support teammates and 4,000 ambulatory surgery center physician partners cared for America through millions of visits, including:

  • 30 million patient encounters
  • 16 million emergency department visits
  • 9 million radiology reads
  • 6 million anesthesia cases
  • 900,000 colonoscopies
  • 180,000 cataract surgeries
  • 132,000 newborn deliveries supported

Caring for Communities
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the medical group has helped lead the nation’s COVID-19 response, caring for patients and working to mitigate the spread of the virus. More than 500 Envision clinicians have traveled to hard-hit communities to provide lifesaving care and relief since the beginning of the pandemic. In 2021, Envision clinicians treated more than 3.4 million COVID-19 patients through emergency department and inpatient visits, including in the intensive care unit. Clinicians also administered COVID-19 tests and vaccines to first responders and community members. Envision continues to educate the public about the importance of getting vaccinated, leading by example through its commitment to having a fully vaccinated team.

Through its disaster response program and years of expertise responding to crises, Envision teams are helping community members navigate some of the nation’s most challenging times. In 2021, Envision clinicians cared for more than 5,000 Afghan refugees for five months until they were resettled and had the resources needed to begin their new lives in the U.S. Teammates also supported communities during the deep freeze in Texas, Hurricane Ida in Louisiana, the tornadoes in the Midwest and the Marshall Fire in Colorado.

Providing Safe, High-Quality, Patient-Centered Care
Through Envision’s commitment to a culture of safety, clinicians are continuously evaluating clinical protocols and developing best practices to enhance patient outcomes and satisfaction. Envision operates one of 94 Patient Safety Organizations listed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services division, which helps improve the quality and safety of patient care. Through the Physicians Quality Registry, a Qualified Clinical Data Registry approved by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Envision is one of the largest submitters of performance data to Medicare and is helping define the quality of care nationally.

Last year, Envision clinicians developed one new Merit-Based Incentive Payment System measure. Clinicians also exceeded several national quality benchmarks, including measures regarding sepsis, non-opioid pain therapy and the care of babies born weighing less than 1,500 grams.

Empowering Teammates to Thrive
Envision is focused on caring for the people who care for America. In 2021, the medical group remained steadfast in its efforts to prioritize the health of its teams through its comprehensive Clinician Wellness program, which includes free mental health services, peer-to-peer support, crisis debriefs and leadership coaching. Envision also advocated for the Dr. Lorna Breen Healthcare Provider Act – a bipartisan bill designed to help change the culture and conditions that lead to burnout and eliminate the stigma that deters healthcare professionals from seeking mental healthcare.

Last year, Envision continued advancing its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) program, raising awareness and providing teammates with educational opportunities and resources to support DEI. As a medical group caring for communities that reflect the country’s racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and economic diversity, Envision recognizes its responsibility to create a more just and inclusive society.

To download and read the report, visit EnvisionHealth.com/Impact-Report.

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About Envision Healthcare Corporation
Envision Healthcare Corporation is a leading national medical group that delivers physician and advanced practice provider services, primarily in the areas of emergency and hospitalist medicine, anesthesiology, radiology/teleradiology, and neonatology to more than 1,800 clinical departments in healthcare facilities in 45 states and the District of Columbia. Post-acute care is delivered through an array of clinical professionals and integrated technologies which, when combined, contribute to efficient and effective population health management strategies. As a leader in ambulatory surgical care, AMSURG holds ownership in more than 250 surgery centers in 34 states and the District of Columbia, with medical specialties ranging from gastroenterology to ophthalmology and orthopedics. In total, the medical group offers a differentiated suite of clinical solutions on a national scale with a local understanding of our communities, creating value for health systems, payers, providers, and patients. For additional information, visit www.envisionhealth.com.

AMSURG Celebrates Its 30th Anniversary

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AMSURG launched in 1992 as a pioneer in the ambulatory surgery center industry, originating a physician partnership model that endures today. Our original focus was endoscopy centers, but we quickly expanded to include ophthalmology, orthopedic and multi-specialty centers. Today, AMSURG is an industry innovator, advocate, and source for patients to find quality care in their communities.

AMSURG has grown from six partner physician groups in 1992 into a network of nearly 2,000 partner physicians at more than 255 facilities in 34 states and the District of Columbia. But our mission has never changed – to provide quality care when and where it’s needed most, providing enhanced access to services that improve and lengthen life.

Over the past three decades, AMSURG partner physicians have performed more than 25 million procedures across multiple specialties. What began with endoscopies has evolved to incorporate everything from eye care and pain management to the latest in orthopedic care, including total joint replacements – all in a same-day outpatient setting.

One of our proudest achievements came a dozen years ago when we launched StopColonCancerNow, a network of gastroenterologists that spans 32 states and the District of Columbia. Through their work with patients and public awareness and education campaigns, these clinicians combat the second deadliest form of cancer, colon cancer. AMSURG itself is a nation’s leading operator of GI endoscopy centers, and we provide cutting-edge research with Mount Sinai Health Systems and other partners to reduce health disparities and encourage more Americans to get screened for colon cancer earlier.

Advocacy and education are integral to how we serve patients. In 2012, we launched YourSightMatters, a campaign to raise awareness about cataracts and eye health. Today this coalition represents 300 ophthalmologists, optometrists, nurses, and staff at 50 surgery centers.

AMSURG was publicly traded on NASDAQ from 1997 until the merger with Envision Healthcare. Revenues first topped $100 million in 1999. In 2000, AMSURG was named to Forbes’ list of Best Small Companies, which features the country’s most rapidly growing firms. The growth continued:

  • By 2002, AMSURG was a partner to 100 surgery centers, and by 2006 we were the largest ASC provider by the number of centers.
  • In 2007, AMSURG launched a multi-specialty ASC acquisition strategy. Today, we have 58 multi-specialty centers averaging more than 350,000 procedures a year.
  • By 2008, our partners were performing one million procedures annually.
  • In 2012, AMSURG established a health system partnership strategy, and today we have 57 centers with health system partners.

That year, we also finalized a partnership with RWJBarnabas Health to offer New Jersey area patients enhanced access to outpatient surgery services.

AMSURG merged with Sheridan Healthcare in 2014 and Envision Healthcare in 2016. That partnership enables us to make care more affordable and accessible to patients, champion wellness, and empower clinicians to improve the health of the communities they serve.

Envision Healthcare Applauds Enactment of Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act

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Bipartisan Clinician Well-Being Legislation Promotes Mental Health Among Those Working on the Frontlines of the Pandemic

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Envision Healthcare, a leading national medical group, today welcomed the enactment of the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act and the country’s efforts to prioritize healthcare professionals’ health and well-being. The bipartisan bill is named in honor of Dr. Lorna Breen, an emergency physician in New York City who died by suicide in April 2020 after caring for patients during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. This legislation advances the critical effort to change the culture and conditions that lead to burnout and eliminate the stigma that deters healthcare professionals from seeking mental healthcare. President Joe Biden signed the bill into law after it was approved with strong support from both parties in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate.

“The COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the importance of supporting the health and well-being of clinicians who go above and beyond to care for patients in need,” said Stefanie Simmons, MD, FACEP, Vice President of Patient and Clinician Engagement at Envision Healthcare. “The Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act will help America’s healthcare professionals access critical mental health resources. The enactment of this law sends a strong signal of support to clinicians across the United States, particularly as we enter the third year of the pandemic.”

Specifically, the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act:

  • Establishes grants for training health profession students, residents or health care professionals in evidence-informed strategies to reduce and prevent suicide, burnout, mental health conditions and substance use disorders. The grants would also help improve health care professionals’ well-being and job satisfaction.
  • Seeks to identify and disseminate evidence-informed best practices for reducing and preventing suicide and burnout among health care professionals, training health care professionals in appropriate strategies, and promoting their mental and behavioral health and job satisfaction.
  • Establishes a national evidence-based education and awareness campaign targeting health care professionals to encourage them to seek support and treatment for mental and behavioral health concerns.
  • Establishes grants for employee education, peer-support programming, and mental and behavioral health treatment; health care providers in current or former COVID-19 hotspots will be prioritized.
  • Establishes a comprehensive study on health care professional mental and behavioral health and burnout, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on such professionals’ health.

Healthcare providers go through years of intensive training, incur significant financial debt from school and give up time spent with their families to provide lifesaving care to their community members. Many clinicians have the added pressure of being exposed to trauma and managing their own emotional responses while remaining a source of calm and strength for their patients, their families and their teams. During the course of the pandemic, Envision has provided crisis peer support, implemented mental health leadership training, enhanced formal mental health services and launched peer-to-peer support groups for clinicians.

“Envision Healthcare strongly supported this bipartisan bill as it made its way through Congress,” said Patrick Velliky, Vice President of Government Affairs at Envision Healthcare. “The COVID-19 pandemic has put a significant strain on all healthcare professionals and our already fragile healthcare ecosystem. We must protect the clinicians who care for our country. Providing them with critical resources, as outlined in the bill, is a positive first step in helping them thrive and supporting the long-term health of our nation. This bill aligns with our initiatives to promote clinician well-being, and we are very pleased to see the president sign it into law.”

To learn more about Envision’s commitment to professional well-being, click here.

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About Envision Healthcare Corporation

Envision Healthcare Corporation is a leading national medical group that delivers physician and advanced practice provider services, primarily in the areas of emergency and hospitalist medicine, anesthesiology, radiology/teleradiology, and neonatology to more than 1,800 clinical departments in healthcare facilities in 45 states and the District of Columbia. Post-acute care is delivered through an array of clinical professionals and integrated technologies which, when combined, contribute to efficient and effective population health management strategies. As a leader in ambulatory surgical care, AMSURG holds ownership in more than 250 surgery centers in 34 states and the District of Columbia, with medical specialties ranging from gastroenterology to ophthalmology and orthopedics. In total, the medical group offers a differentiated suite of clinical solutions on a national scale with a local understanding of our communities, creating value for health systems, payers, providers, and patients. For additional information, visit www.envisionhealth.com.

AMSURG Sees Increase in Colorectal Cancer, Urges Americans to Receive Timely Screenings

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. — AMSURG, a division of Envision Healthcare and a national leader in gastrointestinal care, is seeing an increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses and encouraging Americans to receive timely, appropriate screenings and not delay care.

AMSURG data reveals that, in 2021, there was a measurable increase in advanced stage colorectal cancer and precancerous growths, called polyps, in adults of all ages compared to 2020. This increase might be due to patients delaying screenings and care during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, AMSURG reported more than 200,000 patients had missed their colonoscopies since the start of the pandemic.

“Any increase in colorectal cancer is very concerning,” said Regina DeHart, colon cancer survivor and Vice President at AMSURG. “Having been diagnosed with colon cancer at 42, I know how important it is to have timely screenings. If the pre-cancerous or cancerous polyps are removed in time, there is a greater chance of surviving. Any delay in routine screenings – even by a year – can make a difference in saving someone’s life. People can thrive after a CRC diagnosis, but timing matters.”

Although colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., it is one of the most preventable cancers. As a leader in CRC screening, detection and prevention, AMSURG has been educating the public about the importance of timely screenings based on an individual’s age and risk factors. De-identified data from nearly 3 million colonoscopies performed at AMSURG ambulatory surgery centers supports recent recommendations to lower the first-time screening age from 50 to 45 for people at average risk.

Based on 2021 AMSURG data, people were on average 57.6 years old when they had their first screening colonoscopy. In 2016, the average person receiving a first-time screening was 58.5 years old – which was before the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force released guidance changing the age to 45.

“While the U.S. healthcare system has made progress in lowering the recommended screening age, too many people are starting their screenings too late. A lot of work remains to educate people and encourage them to begin screening at 45,” said John Popp, MD, Medical Director for AMSURG. “Receiving timely and routine colonoscopies can save your life. If you are 45 or older, you should be screened. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or are experiencing symptoms, such as altered bowel habits or blood in the stool, talk to your physician about a colonoscopy regardless of your age. In addition, a positive at-home test should be evaluated with a follow-up colonoscopy promptly. When a colonoscopy is delayed – especially after a positive at-home test – there is a greater chance an individual will have more advanced cancer.”

A colonoscopy is the most thorough screening test. It enables physicians to examine the entire length of the 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.

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About AMSURG
AMSURG acquires, develops and operates ambulatory surgery centers (ASC) in partnership with physicians throughout the United States. As of January 1, 2021, AMSURG operates and holds ownership in more than 250 ASCs in 34 states and the District of Columbia with medical specialties ranging from gastroenterology to ophthalmology and orthopedics. To learn more about AMSURG, a division of Envision Healthcare Corporation, visit www.amsurg.com.

About Envision Healthcare Corporation
Envision Healthcare Corporation is a leading national medical group that delivers physician and advanced practice provider services, primarily in the areas of emergency and hospitalist medicine, anesthesiology, radiology/teleradiology, and neonatology to more than 1,800 clinical departments in healthcare facilities in 45 states and the District of Columbia. Post-acute care is delivered through an array of clinical professionals and integrated technologies which, when combined, contribute to efficient and effective population health management strategies. As a leader in ambulatory surgical care, AMSURG holds ownership in more than 250 surgery centers in 34 states and the District of Columbia, with medical specialties ranging from gastroenterology to ophthalmology and orthopedics. In total, the medical group offers a differentiated suite of clinical solutions on a national scale with a local understanding of our communities, creating value for health systems, payers, providers, and patients. For additional information, visit www.envisionhealth.com.