Ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) are modern, state-of-the-art healthcare facilities focused on providing same-day surgical care, including diagnostic and preventive procedures. ASCs are designed to provide a streamlined and low-cost option to outpatient hospital care for less complicated surgeries such as eye, orthopedic, pain management, ENT and gastrointestinal procedures. The convenient and cost-effective nature of ASCs has attracted both physicians and patients.

The Global Ambulatory Surgical Center Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 100.3 Bn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 4.3% over the forecast period from 2024 to 2031.

Key Takeaways

Key players operating in the Ambulatory Surgical Center market are AmSurg Corp., HCA Holdings, Inc., Tenet Healthcare, Surgical Care Affiliates, Inc., Surgery Partners, Ambulatory Surgical Centers of America, Heathway Medical Group, Community Health Systems, Inc., and Vision Group Holdings.

The key opportunities in the Ambulatory Surgical Center market include increasing demand for minimally invasive surgeries, rising geriatric population suffering from chronic diseases, and growing prevalence of lifestyle diseases. The number of ASCs is growing significantly across major markets like the United States, China, India and countries in Europe.

Market drivers

The increasing preference for outpatient surgeries over inpatient hospital stays is a major driver for the Ambulatory Surgical Center market growth. ASCs provide a lower-cost alternative for surgical procedures that do not require overnight hospital stay. This has resulted in a shift from traditional hospital-based care to ASCs. According to estimates, nearly 75% of all surgeries performed in the United States can be done safely in ASCs. The cost savings associated with ASCs is around 40-70% lower than inpatient hospital costs. This is expected to significantly drive their demand.

PEST Analysis

Political: Ambulatory surgical centers face laws and regulations set by governments regarding quality standards, licensing, and approvals. Changes in healthcare policies could impact their operations.

Economic: ASCs are affected by the overall economic conditions like employment rates, disposable income, and insurance coverage. Economic downturns may reduce non-essential procedures volume.

Social: As people prefer minimally invasive procedures, demand for outpatient surgeries at ASCs is rising. Growing chronic disease prevalence and aging population continue to drive their market.

Technological: ASCs adopt latest medical technologies like robotic surgery systems and integrated operating rooms. This helps provide enhanced patient care, shorter recovery times, and quicker discharges.

Geographical concentration
North America accounts for the largest share of the Ambulatory Surgical Center market in terms of value, with the United States being its major contributor. This is due to factors like the rising healthcare expenditure, increasing medical tourism, presence of key players, and developed healthcare infrastructure in the region.

Fastest growing region
Asia Pacific region is poised to witness the highest growth during the forecast period owing to improving accessibility to healthcare facilities, growing medical tourism, rising awareness about minimal invasive treatments and expanding healthcare infrastructure in emerging countries like China and India.