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ASCs in PA barred from performing some laparoscopic procedures

Ambulatory Surgery Reimbursement Update, December 7, 2004

Ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) in Pennsylvania received word last week that they will be unable to perform a number of laparoscopic surgical procedures-a decision likely to affect a large population of patients within the state.

According to a press release issued Thursday by the Federated Ambulatory Surgery Association (FASA), the Pennsylvania Department of Health has issued a decision prohibiting ASCs from performing what they consider "major invasion" laparoscopic procedures, most prominently a surgery known as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which is for the removal of gall stones.

Kathy Bryant, executive vice president of FASA, was quoted on the organization's website, saying "The department of health's decision will harm patients by denying them access to a safe, affordable and friendly facility for the treatment of a painful disease." Bryant also expressed dismay that the PDH has not offered a clear and cohesive definition of what they consider "major invasion" surgeries, leaving ASCs to wonder what other types of surgeries may end up being included on the list.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a procedure that averages about an hour in length, and involves a light and camera being passed through small incisions into the abdomen, allowing surgeons to look inside without having to cut through the abdominal muscles. FASA estimates that ASCs performed as many as 44,000 of the procedures in 2003 alone.

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