2026 Coding Updates Impacting Ambulatory Surgical Centers - Takeaways - MDSpire

2026 Coding Updates Impacting Ambulatory Surgical Centers

Ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) enter 2026 facing a mixed Medicare environment.

  • By

  • Matthew Baugh, MHA, COT, OCS, OCSR

  • Brandy Keys, MPH

  • March 1, 2026

  • 6 min

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  • 1

    The 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule introduces policies that reduce professional reimbursement for ASC-based surgeries.

  • 2

    CMS finalized a limited ASC payment increase, with facility rates for most ophthalmic procedures rising by 1% to 10%.

  • 3

    A new prior authorization pilot program for ASCs will affect selected services, potentially delaying claims if not submitted.

  • 4

    Cataract surgery reimbursement was corrected, resulting in a 3.4% increase, crucial for ASCs' revenue from ophthalmic procedures.

  • 5

    ASCs must adapt to reduced physician payments and new documentation requirements to ensure timely payment and patient access.

Original Source(s)

2026 Coding Updates Impacting Ambulatory Surgical Centers

  • by Matthew Baugh, MHA, COT, OCS, OCSR, Brandy Keys, MPH

  • March 1, 2026

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