AmSurg
Operates ambulatory surgery centers and provides physician services in various specialties.
PE-OWNED
Acquired by KKR2016-12-01
What Made It Great
Leading operator of outpatient surgery centers with cost-effective procedures
What PE Will Likely Do
Reduction in nursing staff and replacement with less-qualified LPNs or aides, leading to longer wait times and potentially lower-quality care for patients undergoing outpatient procedures
Sale-leaseback of AmSurg's surgery center real estate, extracting equity for KKR but potentially leading to higher rents and overhead costs that get passed on to patients
Aggressive coding and billing practices to maximize reimbursements, potentially resulting in patients being billed for higher-cost procedures or diagnoses than necessary
Elimination of certain less-profitable but essential service lines like maternity care or psychiatric services, reducing access to comprehensive healthcare for the local community
Expected Timeline
“0 to 6 months months”
Announcements of 'operational optimization' and leadership changes, but no immediately visible impact on patients
“6 to 12 months months”
Gradual staffing reductions and service line reviews begin, leading to slightly longer wait times and fewer available appointment slots
“12 to 24 months months”
Noticeable decline in service quality, with longer wait times, higher patient loads, and potential equipment maintenance issues
“24 to 36 months months”
Significant problems emerge, such as department closures, quality scandals, and potential financial distress for the company
Similar Cases
Other companies that followed a similar path after PE acquisition
What You Can Do
Actions
Monitor for any changes in the availability of specific healthcare services at AmSurg centers, as well as any increases in wait times or billing practices
Be vigilant for any potential declines in the quality of care, such as shorter appointments, higher patient loads, or equipment maintenance issues
Consider alternative outpatient surgery options in the local community that may not be affected by the PE acquisition
Alternatives
Community-focused healthcare
Integrated managed care consortium