The ambulatory surgery center (ASC) industry is going through a very interesting time, Kevin McDonough (VMG Health) told the audience during a webinar last week, Valuing Ambulatory Surgery Centers. The industry is reaching a mature stage, growth in ASC development has leveled off, same-center growth has flatlined, ASC supply exceeds physician demand, and consolidation is in its initial stages, he observes. Furthermore, ASCs are dealing with continued managed care and Medicare reimbursement pressure and uncertainty regarding healthcare reform’s long-term impact.

Good news: “From a business appraiser’s standpoint the uncertainty is a good thing because it drives transaction and consulting work,” he says. “We’ve been busy.”