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Cataract Surgery at AMSURG ASC Restores Patient’s Sight

September 26, 2024 by Emily Grant

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.

Filed Under: Ophthalmology, Superior Clinical Experiences

AMSURG Cataract Surgery Patient Thanks Doctor, ASC With Donation to Aid the Visually Impaired

July 23, 2024 by Emily Grant

seeing eye dog leads a blind person through the train compartmentBob Puzio did not know how the world really looked until he saw it in a new light.

A husband, father and retiree, Puzio lives a busy life in Roxbury Township, New Jersey, traveling with family and pursuing his hobbies as a documenter and collector of craft brewing memorabilia.

So, it was a surprise when Dr. Eric Mann, an ophthalmologist with Ridgedale Surgery Center in Cedar Knolls, New Jersey, diagnosed Puzio with cataracts in both eyes and glaucoma during a comprehensive eye exam.

“One thing you find out [during an eye exam] is that you could be clueless that your vision is anything but normal,” he said. “If anything, I thought my vision was getting better as I aged.”

As Puzio’s sight improved following months of treatment, he wanted to thank the people who gave him the vision he thought he always had.

But how? A card or a small gift would be more than most people offer, but Puzio had an idea, one that could help others see the world in a new light.

“There’s this Bible quote about how 10 lepers were cured, but only one said, ‘Thank you,’ and I wanted to be the one to say thank you,” Puzio said. “You can buy people donuts and coffee, but I had to do more than just say, ‘Thank you. Good job.’”

“A Triple Whammy” Diagnosis

To say the findings from his eye exam caught Puzio off guard would be an understatement.

“I joked that the diagnosis was a triple whammy,” Puzio said. “Glaucoma and cataracts in both eyes were not what I was prepared to hear.”

A cataract is a hazing of the eye lens that impedes passing light into the eye. At first, the cloudiness may affect only a small part of the lens, and you may be unaware that you are developing vision loss.

Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss among people older than 55. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, over half of all Americans will develop cataracts by age 75.

Cataracts can impair vision or destroy it if left untreated. At first, stronger eyeglass prescriptions can help with cataracts. Dr. Mann noted that many patients may reach a point where surgery becomes the only option.

“We can often tweak glasses to work around different changes in prescriptions, but at some point, glasses can’t be tweaked any further,” Dr. Mann said. “Robert had received steady changes to his prescription, but he was still presenting issues and we couldn’t run the risk of waiting too long and there being complications.”

Patient Undergoes Cataract Surgery

Unlike other eye diseases like glaucoma, doctors can remove cataracts to restore eyesight. The operation includes removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial one, called an intraocular lens (IOL). The construction of an IOL involves using silicone, acrylic or other plastic materials and frequently applying a protective coating against UV rays.

“Cataracts are a natural clouding and graying of that lens inside the eye,” Dr. Mann said. “Patients describe it as a fuzz or blur you’d normally fix by cleaning your eyeglasses. But it’s not glasses: it’s the lens inside your eye that’s turning gray, and we can go in and replace that with a man-made lens.”

In late 2023, Puzio received an injection to treat his glaucoma procedure and reduce eye pressure at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC). Two cataract surgeries — one in each eye — followed, performed by Dr. Mann in January and February 2024.

Puzio said the improvement to his vision was obvious in the weeks between his cataract procedures. Taking advantage of a snowfall that had blown through his area, he tested what his “new” right eye could see.

“Just for kicks, I put my hand to my right eye, and the snow looked like it was yellow straw colored through my left eye,” Puzio remarked. “I did the opposite and that same snow looked as bright as an LED light.

“Seeing the difference in my vision was a total ‘woah’ moment.”

Compassionate Care

A traumatic eye injury in his youth made Puzio apprehensive about undergoing treatment. Despite his reservations, the staff at Ridgedale Surgery Center worked with him throughout the process to find approaches unique to him.

“When Dr. Mann or anyone gets close to my eyes, I spasm, and I just can’t control it,” he said. “And the thing with LASIK surgery is that you must be awake throughout. I knew I wouldn’t be able to control myself if I was awake, so Dr. Mann opted for the traditional cataract surgery.”

Patients undergoing cataract surgery typically remain awake, using local anesthesia administered either through eye drops or needle-based blocks. Recognizing that neither solution addressed Puzio’s unique circumstances, Dr. Mann and his team collaborated on alternative sedation methods, ensuring the procedure could be executed successfully while addressing his specific concerns.

“The anesthesiologist working with Dr. Mann came up with a different way to sedate me so that I would be out of it, as far as I knew, but not totally under like with general anesthesia,” Puzio said. “The only pain I felt with both surgeries was when the IV went in; it was easier than going to the dentist.”

Dr. Mann highlighted that Puzio’s positive experience, before, during and post-procedure, serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of Ridgedale’s dedicated staff and the level of care available in the ASC setting.

“Robert told us after that everyone from the first interaction at registering at the front desk to the nursing staff and then the anesthesiologist took their time with him,” Dr. Mann said. “It gives me pride to know our team cares. They’re not just clocking in; they love what they do, and when you love what you do, you can do amazing things for patients.

“At a big hospital, you might hear, ‘It’s not my job,’ or hear things that staff are told to tell patients, but that’s not going to be your experience [at an ASC].”

Helping Others to See a Way Forward

A hub for service dog training, the neighboring town of Morristown, New Jersey, is home to The Seeing Eye, an internationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to training service dogs. For nearly a century, the local charity has raised generations of dogs to help the blind achieve greater independence and freedom.

To thank those responsible for his improved vision, Puzio made multiple donations to The Seeing Eye, including gifts on behalf of Dr. Mann and his ASC staff.

“[The ASC staff] did something grand for me, so the least I could do is pay it forward,” Puzio said. “The Seeing Eye is local, so I see them training around town, and I know the great work they do. What better way to say thanks than to benefit others?”

Dr. Mann said Puzio’s gesture signified something more profound than a simple positive review.

“People who have a good experience usually leave a positive review, but Robert’s case is unique,” Dr. Mann said. “It’s almost spiritual to want to connect with something bigger.

“[Puzio] was able to have a surgery to see better, and he paid that forward by providing resources so that others could get back a different kind of sight.”

Now months removed from treatment, Puzio is back at his hobbies and enjoying spending time with his wife and children. Cataract surgery, he said, has changed the way he sees the world.

“When Dr. Mann told me that I needed surgery as soon as possible, I thought, ‘Why?’ But now, everything I see is sharper, brighter, and clearer.

“I’m really seeing the world in a completely new light.”

Partner With AMSURG

Every day, AMSURG surgery centers provide world-class care for patients, 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 over 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.

Filed Under: Ophthalmology, Superior Clinical Experiences

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

June 18, 2024 by Emily Grant

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.

Filed Under: Company Announcement, Gastroenterology, Ophthalmology, Orthopaedics, Superior Clinical Experiences

Envision Healthcare’s 2022 Clinical Impact Report

April 27, 2023 by darkspire

Envision Healthcare’s 2022 Clinical Impact Report Illustrates the Many Ways Teams Cared for and Positively Impacted Millions of People

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Today, Envision Healthcare, a leading national medical group, released its 2022 Clinical Impact Report, detailing the many ways Envision teams continue improving healthcare for millions of people by providing care when and where it’s needed most. The full report is available at ImpactReport.EnvisionHealth.com.

“In 2022, Envision clinicians and clinical support teammates remained steadfast in providing the highest quality of patient-centered care,” said Jim Rechtin, Chief Executive Officer of Envision Healthcare. “While continuing to make patients our top priority, we focused on creating programs and services to support the well-being of the clinicians that care for those who need it most. We made investments and improvements to support our team members and the communities we serve. From advancing clinical quality standards and building communities of clinicians to championing philanthropic ventures that uplift patients across the globe, our 2022 Clinical Impact Report provides a glimpse into the incredible work Envision teammates do daily.”

Envision’s second annual Clinical Impact Report illustrates the organization’s significant contributions to the healthcare community by highlighting its innovations in care and dedication to patients. The report details Envision’s work within the pillars of Care, Connection and Community, showcasing everything from colon cancer prevention initiatives to patients’ testimonials of Envision clinicians providing extraordinary care.

Delivering Safe, High-Quality, Patient-Centered Care

Envision clinicians provide integrated, high-quality care to patients throughout their care journey. In 2022, they treated patients in communities throughout the United States through the following:

  • 29 million patient encounters
  • 16 million emergency department and inpatient encounters
  • 8 million radiology reads
  • 4 million anesthesia cases
  • 1 million colonoscopies
  • 182,000 cataract surgeries
  • 144,000 newborn deliveries supported
  • 87,000 orthopedic surgeries

Care

Envision is empowering clinicians to provide safe, reliable care and advance clinical quality by optimizing the transition of care through evidence-based practices and nationally recognized standards. In 2022, Envision clinicians continued outperforming national quality benchmarks while treating complex medical conditions and authoring two Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services-approved national clinical quality measures. Through programs like Emergency Triage, Treat and Transport (ET3), Envision teams provided patients the right care at the right time and in the right place. They also contributed to healthcare advancements. In 2022, the Research Institute team conducted clinical trials and published 161 research publications, helping Envision earn a top three award at the prestigious Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine World Congress in London.

Connection

Envision is providing clinicians with the tools and resources they need to treat patients without distraction, furthering its commitment to investing in teammates and empowering them to thrive professionally and personally. In 2022, Envision redefined its organizational structure to build a transformative care experience for patients and drive clinical innovation. Envision focused on programs and services that inspire, protect, empower and engage physicians and advanced practice providers to prioritize their wellness. Envision’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts led to the launch of four employee resource groups, helping foster community. In addition, Envision helped care for patients and teammates during times of devastation. Following Hurricane Ian, Envision provided medical supplies and financial resources to help individuals.

Community

The Envision Healthcare Charitable Fund supports Envision’s philanthropic efforts, working to make a difference in people’s lives at the local, national and global levels. In 2022, the Charitable Fund donated $4 million to more than 50 community organizations, providing awareness, education and support to a variety of causes. Envision worked with United Way to assemble hygiene and smile kits for 4,000 individuals and supported the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation to reduce clinician burnout and promote well-being. In collaboration with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, AMSURG, a leading provider of colonoscopies, continued to educate the public about the importance of timely screenings to prevent and detect colorectal cancer. Envision also collaborated with Operation White Stork to deliver first aid kits to those on the frontlines in Ukraine. As part of their passion for improving healthcare worldwide, Envision clinicians and clinical support teammates cared for communities in need through Envision’s Global Health Initiative. They provided 495 patient consults in the Dominican Republic and performed 38 surgeries and 245 consults in Honduras in 2022.

To download and read the report, visit ImpactReport.EnvisionHealth.com.

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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. 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.

Filed Under: Anesthesia, Gastroenterology, Leadership, Ophthalmology, Orthopaedics, Superior Clinical Experiences

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

April 14, 2022 by darkspire

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.

Filed Under: Anesthesia, Company Announcement, Gastroenterology, Improved Operational Efficiency, Leadership, Long-term Financial Opportunity, Ophthalmology, Orthopaedics, Strategic Collaboration, Superior Clinical Experiences

AMSURG Celebrates Its 30th Anniversary

April 7, 2022 by darkspire

 

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.

Filed Under: Company Announcement, Gastroenterology, Long-term Financial Opportunity, Ophthalmology, Orthopaedics, Superior Clinical Experiences

National Glaucoma Awareness Month: Halt the Sneak Thief of Sight with Early Detection

January 27, 2021 by darkspire

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, and AMSURG wants to spread the word about this sight-stealing disease.

Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss in the United States. More than 3 million people in the United States, and over 60 million people worldwide, have glaucoma. The National Eye Institute projects this number will reach 4.2 million in the United States by 2030, a 40 percent increase.

Sometimes known as the “The Sneak Thief of Sight,” glaucoma is a blanket term for a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. Glaucoma has no cure and is the leading cause of irreversible blindness. Once the damage is done to the optic nerve, a large amount of vision can be permanently lost without someone noticing.

“Glaucoma is labeled a ‘sneak thief’ because it does just that – it sneaks up on you and does damage without you noticing,” Dr. Jeff Taylor, an ophthalmologist with The Eye Surgery Center of Paducah, Kentucky, said. “That loss of vision doesn’t happen overnight; it’s a gradual process that will eventually result in permanent loss of vision if it is not adequately treated, all happening without you knowing.”

What are some common risk factors for glaucoma?

  • Age 45 or older
  • Family history of glaucoma
  • History of injury to the eye
  • African American heritage
  • History of steroid use, either in the eye (drops) or systemically (orally or injected)
  • Diabetes
  • Nearsighted (myopic)
  • Farsighted (hyperopic)
  • History of elevated intraocular pressure

Early detection is critical to preventing glaucoma from damaging your vision, and the best way to protect your sight is to get a comprehensive eye examination. If glaucoma is detected in a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor will design a treatment plan for you. Your doctor will go over the treatment options available and make recommendations for which treatment or combinations of treatments are best for your specific condition.

“If we can document that something is changing with your optic nerve or peripheral vision early, then we can start treatment,” Dr. Taylor said. “Promising new research on glaucoma is conducted every day trying to find a cure, but until that is found, we will continue to use tools like early detection to preserve sight.”

In 2020, AMSURG centers provided thousands of glaucoma procedures. AMSURG is proud to partner with more than 60 ophthalmology and multispecialty centers, and five ophthalmology practice locations, to provide high-quality patient care and consistently work on prevention, awareness, improved treatment methods and new procedure technologies for patients with glaucoma.

Want to know if you’re at risk? Click here to take a glaucoma risk assessment and find out. Or click here to request an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam at an AMSURG Center.

Filed Under: Ophthalmology, Superior Clinical Experiences

AMSURG Centers Excel in Patient Experience

August 12, 2020 by darkspire

Eight Centers Receive the Coveted Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award

Surgery centers across the AMSURG network work diligently to deliver an ideal experience and safe, high-quality care to our patients every day. Eight of our centers have consistently exceeded patient experience goals and were awarded the 2020 Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award. These surgery centers maintained exemplary patient experience ratings for the past year, ranking within the top fifth percentile of Press Ganey’s eligible clientele. Only 18 of 2,700 surgery centers received the award and AMSURG is honored to represent nearly half of the award recipients.

Guardian of Excellence Award Winners

Gastroenterology

  • Endoscopy Center of Southeast, Beaumont, Texas
  • Woodlands Endoscopy Center, Texas
  • The Endoscopy Center, Knoxville, Tennessee
  • Sun City Endoscopy Center, Arizona

Ophthalmology

  • The Eye Surgery Center of Paducah, Kentucky
  • EyeCare Consultants Surgery Center, Evansville, Indiana

Orthopaedic

  • Surgery Center of Volusia, Port Orange, Florida
  • Orthopaedic Surgery Center of Ocala, Florida

*This is the second consecutive year for Sun City Endoscopy Center to receive the prestigious award.

“Our surgery centers are an integral part of the healthcare systems in the communities they serve. We commend each of the surgery centers for their commitment to providing exceptional care and experiences for every patient,” said Chan Chuang, M.D., FCCP, FACP, AMSURG President and Envision Healthcare Chief Medical Officer. “These eight centers are shining examples of what it means to provide patient-centered care.”

The Guardian of Excellence Award recognizes healthcare organizations that score in the 95th percentile for patient experience, employee/physician engagement or clinical quality performance. Press Ganey, a leader in development and distribution of patient satisfaction surveys, partners with more than 26,000 organizations to administer the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems Outpatient and Ambulatory Surgery Survey (OAS CAHPS). The survey measures the care experiences of patients who receive procedures at Medicare-certified surgery centers.

“AMSURG is very proud of the work these centers perform in service to patients every day. This year has been especially unique, presenting new challenges and working environments,” said Nina Goins, Vice President of Quality and Clinical Services, AMSURG, “The centers have not let these challenges impact the focus on keeping our patients our first priority. They are truly setting the standard.”

AMSURG is proud to recognize these centers and their employees for their ability to uphold and consistently deliver high-quality patient care.

Filed Under: Company Announcement, Gastroenterology, Leadership, Ophthalmology, Orthopaedics, Superior Clinical Experiences

Dr. Ken Beckman of the Columbus Eye Surgery Center Helps Teen with a Rare Eye Disease

April 9, 2019 by darkspire

Recently featured on TODAY, Dr. Ken Beckman of the Columbus Eye Surgery Center treated a teen with a rare eye condition after years of misdiagnosis. Charlie Diehl was diagnosed with Keratoconus, a degenerative eye disease that causes the cornea to thin and form a cone shape. The disease only occurs in about one out of every 2,000 people.

As the disease is hard to detect, Charlie had been misdiagnosed since the age of five. After ongoing issues with his vision at school, Charlie’s family sought the help of Beckman. Beckman identified the diseases and recommended Charlie, age 16 at this point, undergo a corneal cross-linking procedure. Cross-linking uses ultraviolet light and drops to build up the cornea.

Charlie’s vision has improved, and he is no longer wearing contact lens or glasses. He is now a freshman at Ohio State University.

Learn more about Charlie’s story and treatment with Beckham on today.com.

Filed Under: Ophthalmology, Superior Clinical Experiences

AMSURG Broadens Ophthalmology Portfolio With Strategic Physician Practice Partnership

May 17, 2018 by darkspire

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – AMSURG, an Envision Healthcare solution, today announced the acquisition of Horizon Eye Specialists & LASIK Center, an Arizona-based ophthalmology practice, which includes four practice locations, an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) and three optical centers. For AMSURG, a national leader in the strategic and operational management of ASCs, this introduces a new practice partnership model designed for long-term growth.

“The alignment marks a significant milestone for AMSURG and, in particular, our ophthalmology division,” said John Grant, President of Ophthalmology for AMSURG. “Strategic partnerships like this are crucial to improving the delivery of consistent quality eye care and being a provider patients can trust. Horizon Eye Specialists & LASIK Center embodies our commitment to delivering patient-centered care and upholding high clinical standards. We are thrilled to welcome its expert team of physicians, optometrists and administrative staff to the AMSURG family.”

Horizon Eye Specialists & LASIK Center includes four locations in the metro area, the Eye Surgery Center at the Biltmore and the Sharona Optical Centers in the Phoenix metro area. The group’s seven physicians and six optometrists provide an array of services, including LASIK eye surgery, cataract surgery, multifocal intraocular lenses and comprehensive eye care.

“We are thrilled to join AMSURG, a nationally recognized leader in ophthalmic care,” said Robert McCulloch, M.D., Medical Director and Senior Cataract Surgeon for Horizon Eye Specialists & LASIK Center. “The partnership will provide us with the support, expertise and resources we need to position our practice for long-term growth and success as we continue to expand our footprint within the Phoenix area and provide our patients with the high-quality care they have come to expect.”

“For more than 30 years, we have partnered with physician practices to build comprehensive outpatient surgical solutions, drive utilization, improve quality measures and expand their breadth and scale of service,” said Phillip Clendenin, President of AMSURG. “In a rapidly changing environment, we seek to be the physician-centric strategic alternative of choice for the entrepreneurial and independent physician practice. Partnering with Horizon Eye Specialists & LASIK Center was a natural fit given our existing presence in the Phoenix area and our common operational philosophy. We strongly believe our shared equity partnership model differentiates us from our competitors and will allow Horizon Eye Specialists & LASIK Center to continue to recruit top clinical talent for years to come.”

As an industry leader in outpatient care, AMSURG supports physicians in providing quality patient care through the management and operation of their ASCs. While AMSURG specializes in many areas of care, the organization has particular expertise in eye health. Its network of providers consists of more than 700 ophthalmologists and optometrists, as well as the staff members, at more than 75 surgery centers. In 2017, centers affiliated with AMSURG performed nearly 225,000 eye procedures.

With the addition of Horizon Eye Specialists & LASIK Center, the organization is building on its commitment to improve care coordination between practices, hospitals and surgery centers and enhance the overall delivery of care.

Filed Under: Company Announcement, Ophthalmology, Strategic Collaboration

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