An ambulatory surgery center company operating outpatient surgical facilities nationwide.
Acquired by TPG Capital2007-04-01
Outpatient surgery centers providing cost-effective surgical procedures
Reduction in nursing staff and replacement with less-qualified LPNs or aides, leading to longer wait times and potentially poorer patient outcomes
Real estate sale-leaseback transactions, which could lead to higher facility rental costs that are passed on to patients
Aggressive billing practices, such as upcoding for higher-reimbursement procedures and diagnoses, which could result in higher out-of-pocket costs for patients
Elimination of unprofitable but essential services, such as rural or specialized care, which could reduce access to certain surgical procedures for some patients
Extraction of large management and consulting fees, which could reduce the resources available for patient care and facility maintenance
Announcement of leadership changes and 'optimization' initiatives, but no significant changes to patient experience
Staffing cuts begin, with longer wait times and potentially reduced quality of care as a result
Noticeable decline in service quality, with longer wait times, reduced access to certain procedures, and potential quality of care issues
Major problems emerge, such as closures of certain surgical departments or facilities, leading to further reductions in access and quality of care
Potential bankruptcy, fire sale to another operator, or continued decline in the quality and availability of surgical services
Other companies that followed a similar path after PE acquisition
Be aware of potential changes in the quality of care and access to services at Surgical Care Affiliates facilities following the acquisition by TPG Capital
Monitor wait times, staffing levels, and any changes to the range of services offered at Surgical Care Affiliates facilities
Be vigilant for any increases in out-of-pocket costs or unexpected billing practices, and advocate for transparency and fair pricing
Consider seeking care at other healthcare providers if the quality and accessibility of services at Surgical Care Affiliates facilities decline significantly
Community-focused healthcare
Integrated managed care consortium