ASC Growing Pains

Daniel Eisenstadt of Terramed Real Estate Solutions discusses factors that contribute to limited surgical capacity and what can be done about them.

May 1, 2026
5 min

Ophthalmology Management

Overview

This report discusses the increasing demand for ophthalmic surgical procedures in ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) and the operational challenges faced due to limited capacity. Key factors include demographic shifts, technological advancements, and the need for facility expansion to accommodate growing surgical volumes.

Background

The demand for ophthalmic surgeries, particularly cataract procedures, is rising due to an aging population and advancements in surgical technology. ASCs are becoming preferred settings for these procedures due to their efficiency and cost-effectiveness. However, many existing ASCs are struggling with capacity constraints that hinder their ability to meet this growing demand.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available in the source material.

Key Findings

Demographic changes are driving increased demand for cataract surgeries.
Many ASCs were designed for lower surgical volumes and are now facing operational bottlenecks.
High-volume surgeons require multiple operating rooms to maintain efficiency.
Shortages of anesthesiologists can exacerbate scheduling issues in ASCs.
Facility design must accommodate modern equipment and future procedural advancements.
Strategic planning for facility expansion is essential to meet growing surgical demands.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should assess the operational efficiency of their ASCs and consider facility upgrades or expansions to accommodate increasing surgical volumes. Understanding the limitations of existing infrastructure is crucial for planning future growth and maintaining patient access to care.

Conclusion

As demand for ophthalmic procedures continues to rise, ASCs must adapt their facilities and operations to avoid capacity constraints that could impact patient care. Strategic planning and investment in infrastructure are vital for sustaining growth in this specialty.