Advocacy
NYSAASC’s legislative program is centered on supporting legislation, regulation and policies that foster the growth of ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), which have a proven track record of high-quality care and treatment at a lower cost. Ambulatory surgery centers are diagnostic and treatment centers licensed under Article 28 of the Public Health Law to provide access to safe surgical care across many specialties including but not limited to ENT, gastroenterology /endoscopy, ophthalmology, and orthopaedics. In fact, ASCs perform more than 40 percent of all colonoscopies for those covered under Medicare, a testament to the important role ASCs have in cancer prevention and detection.
NYSAASC is at the forefront, working to ensure the voice of ASCs has a seat at the table as important pieces of legislation, regulations and policies are prepared, debated and voted on. As we learned from the COVID-19 public health emergency, our voice must be part of the policy discussions that will affect every aspect of operation, including administrative, clinical and patient care.
As more patients choose an ASC for their procedure and other forces promote the use of ASCs, it is important NYSAASC and its members remain engaged and vigilant. The
advocacy work we do is year-round and is just one of the benefits your membership to NYSAASC provides. If you are not already a member, join NYSAASC and encourage your colleagues to do so as well.
Recent Accomplishments
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Approval of a dedicated seat for a representative of a freestanding ASC on the Public Health & Health Planning Council (PHHPC)!
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Governor and Legislature’s recognition of August as ASC month in the State of New York!
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Passage of legislation to prevent exposure to surgical smoke in ASCs!
2026 Priorities
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Implementing cardiac services within the ASCs
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Filling our PHHPC Seat
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Medicaid Reform (Implant/Supply Coverage)
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Navigating the Newly Approved CMS codes in the ASC setting
