Price and Quality for Ambulatory Surgery: Differences Between Hospital-Based and Freestanding Centers

Using recent national Blue Cross Blue Shield Association claims for six procedures commonly performed in both ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) and hospital outpatient departments, this study will document the variation in prices and complication rates across delivery sites and geography, determine the association between prices and complications, and estimate the potential savings that could be achieved by adopting (a) narrow networks that limit coverage to ASCs, (b) reference prices set at average ASC prices and (c) various levels of high deductibles. Findings should be helpful to health plans and other stakeholders trying to design policies to channel patients to more efficient providers.