CMS Issues New Interpretive Guidelines for Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs)

CMS has issued revised interpretive guidelines for the Ambulatory Surgical Center Conditions for Coverage. The revised interpretive guidelines are effective as of Dec. 30, 2009, and have implications for anesthesia.

Issues covered by the changes include anesthestic risk and evaluation prior to surgery and post-surgery (but prior to discharge), as well as who may administer anesthesia. ASA is analyzing the revised guidelines and will provide analysis in the near future.

Revised Interpretive guidelines