News and Opportunities
04/05/2024
CASA PAC - Urgent Call for Member Participation!
We recently reported CASA’s commitment to a more robust advocacy program. We need your help! The CASA Political Action Committee (PAC) just reviewed its current status, and we are launching a campaign to double the size of our PAC through voluntary financial contributions over the next six months.
04/04/2024
CASA Advocacy Update – Protecting and Promoting the ASC Industry
Healthcare in California is changing – with new policies, political pressures, legislative mandates, and regulatory structures. CASA is adapting to those changes with a more robust advocacy program in Sacramento. CASA has expanded our team and presence, with two new lobbyists working in the State Capitol to educate lawmakers, engage with regulatory agencies, and represent the interests of California ASCs. Our approach will create more connections throughout the Legislature and maximize opportunities to protect and advance the industry amid the changing healthcare landscape.
04/03/2024
DWC Posts Adjustments to Official Medical Fee Schedule (Hospital Outpatient Departments/Ambulatory Surgical Centers)
OAS CAHPS - Get Ahead of the Curve Webinar tomorrow - Have you Registered?
The Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) has posted an order adjusting the Hospital Outpatient Departments and Ambulatory Surgical Centers section of the Official Medical Fee Schedule (OMFS) to conform to changes in the Medicare payment system as required by Labor Code section 5307.1.
03/19/2024
Change Healthcare Cyber Response
Resources for Providers, Pharmacies, Payers, Government Partners and Patients
As you are likely aware, Change Healthcare – an organization that works across the health system – has experienced a cybersecurity issue. Below are some updates, links and resources available to support providers, pharmacies and patients in responding to questions and concerns.
03/14/2024
CASA 2024 Salary Survey and CASA OAS CAHPS Webinar
It is that time of year to submit your information for the annual CASA Salary Survey. Each year, the survey becomes more successful with increased participation and expanded results.
03/08/2024
CASA Celebrates Women's History Month
March is Women’s History Month, and it provides an opportunity to celebrate the vital role of women in American history. Some of those women made significant contributions to the advancement of medicine, including Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States, Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, the first female surgeon in the United States, and Dr. Joycelyn Elders who was appointed as the first African American surgeon general in 1993.
03/05/2024
CASA Members in Action
CASA Members Take Part in ASCA’s National Advocacy Day
On February 27th and 28th, 2024, a delegation of 16 representatives from the California Ambulatory Surgery Association (CASA) participated in the Ambulatory Surgery Center Association’s (ASCA) fly-in event. Their mission was to engage with members of Congress and their staff, advocate for the interests of the ASC community and garner support for the Outpatient Surgery Quality and Access Act of 2023.
02/23/2024
CASA Members in Action
CASA Award for ASC Excellence - Begin working on your Application
On February 16, 2024, Assemblymember Josh Hoover (R-Folsom) toured the Folsom Sierra Endoscopy Center. Assemblymember Hoover reached out to tour the center after hearing Folsom Sierra Endoscopy Center received the CASA Award for ASC Excellence in September 2023.
02/15/2024
CASA Values Our Veterans
Veteran Spotlight - Chris Taylor
Our country celebrates President’s Day this Monday, February 19th – it has become an occasion to celebrate the birthdays of both President George Washington and President Abraham Lincoln. As with Memorial Day and Veterans Day, this holiday offers another opportunity for the United States to honor its veterans, the many men and women who have served and sacrificed for our safety, our freedom, and our values.
02/13/2024
DWC Posts Fee Schedule Adjustments for Hospital Outpatient Departments / Ambulatory Surgical Centers
CASA Calculator Updated
The Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) has posted adjustments to the Hospital Outpatient Departments and Ambulatory Surgical Centers section of the Official Medical Fee Schedule (OMFS) to conform to changes in the Medicare payment system as required by Labor Code section 5307.1. The changes take effect on February 15, 2024.
02/12/2024
Important February Deadlines Approaching
CMS ASC-20 and CASA Benchmarking due by February 15, 2024
ASC-20: COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage Among Health Care Personnel data is submitted quarterly via a web-based tool, the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN). The deadline for reporting (2023 third-quarter data) is February 15, 2024.
02/05/2024
CASA Celebrates Black History Month
Member Spotlight - Shawna Gill
Black History Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the cultural heritage of African Americans and how the Black community has shaped U.S. history. February marks the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, who were leaders in the fight to end slavery. Today, we can take time during Black History Month to acknowledge and reflect upon the current and past achievements of the Black community and their lasting impacts
02/01/2024
Did You Miss CASA's Free Webinar?
Navigating the New Norm - Adapting to Changes in Medical Minimum Wage, Salary Requirements & Sick Leave in CA
If you missed CASA's webinar addressing California's new requirements for minimum wage and sick leave? The recording is now available for all CASA members.
01/24/2024
CASA Board Advocates for ASCs in Sacramento
On January 16, 2024, CASA Board members held several meetings with key California legislators discussing ASCs and their impact on healthcare and for their constituents and California at large. The Board met with 23 member offices from both the Assembly and Senate, many who hold key committee appointments with ASC oversight.
01/08/2024
Noridian and Other MACs Showing Incorrect Medicare Rates
Several Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs), including Noridian are displaying incorrect rates for some Medicare procedures.
01/02/2024
Important Dates for CASA Members in 2024
Below are some important opportunities, including a timeline that CA ASCs should be incorporating into their yearly plan. We encourage you to add these dates and deadlines to your calendar.
12/18/2023
House Passes Price Transparency Bill
On December 11, the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act (H.R. 5378) passed the US House of Representatives by a vote of 320–71. The language pertaining to ASCs under Sec. 104 of H.R. 5378 is identical to the price transparency legislation that the Ambulatory Surgery Center Association (ASCA) lobbied against in July. If passed, implementation would begin in January 2026.
11/06/2023
CMS Releases 2024 Final Payment Rule for ASCs and Hospital Outpatient Departments
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released its 2024 final payment rule for ASCs and hospital outpatient departments (HOPD) on November 2, 2023. The rule contained several positive aspects for ASCs including the addition of total shoulder arthroplasty to the ASC Covered Procedures List (ASC-CPL).
11/06/2023
Opportunities to Honor Veterans in Your ASC
Veteran Spotlight - Kim Russell
Veteran’s Day is a time to celebrate the men and women who have served in the U.S. military and recognize their unique experience that comes with that. CASA Executive Director Beth LaBouyer, along with CASA Board Member Stephanie McIntosh, and Scripps Encinitas Surgery Center Administrator Alisa Inahara, participated in a recent career fair for veterans at Camp Pendleton on October 5th.
10/16/2023
CASA Celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Member Spotlight - Marie Nader
National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) acknowledges and celebrates the contributions of employees with disabilities. It also raises awareness regarding employment-related issues unique to people with disabilities. It has been estimated that only about 35% of people with disabilities are employed, compared to 76% of people without disabilities in the United States. More can be done to open the door of opportunity to disabled workers.
10/09/2023
CalOSHA and Common ASC Questions
Register today for this free webinar
As ASCs are busy providing excellent care for their patients, it’s critical that they also offer a safe and healthy environment for their employees and medical staff. This webinar will take place on October 26, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. Zohra Ali, MS, CIH Area Manager, Cal/OSHA Consultation Unit will walk us through the common questions from the ASC community regarding standards and regulations as they pertain to CalOSHA and their oversight.
10/03/2023
DWC Posts Adjustments to Official Medical Fee Schedule (Hospital Outpatient Departments/Ambulatory Surgical Centers)
The Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) has posted an order adjusting the Hospital Outpatient Departments and Ambulatory Surgical Centers section of the Official Medical Fee Schedule (OMFS) to conform to changes in the Medicare payment system as required by Labor Code section 5307.1. CASA has updated its WC calculator to reflect these changes.
09/28/2023
CASA Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15th through October 15th, while many other communities are honored during a dedicated month (i.e. Black history Month in February, or Pride Month in June). The reason for this designated dual-month timeframe is that it aligns with various Latin American Independence Day celebrations. CASA Member, Lydia Maldonado shares her insights.
09/25/2023
Important Education Offerings for CASA Members
Check out the upcoming education from CASA, including the free webinar from CalOSHA.
09/19/2023
CASA Awards 11 ASCs with the CASA Award for ASC Excellence
90210 Surgery Medical Center Wins ASC of the Year
On Thursday, September 14, 2023, CASA revealed the recipients for the 2023 CASA Award for ASC Excellence and the CASA ASC of the Year. The awards were established to acknowledge that California ASCs are drivers of excellent healthcare, providing opportunities and solutions for healthcare reform. In 2016, the CASA Board established the CASA Award for ASC Excellence as a mechanism to honor ASCs who strive to “rise to the top.” The program is built around 5 pillar categories acknowledging a CASA member facility who exemplifies best practices in the surgery center industry, plus actively promotes and advocates for ASC excellence and inclusion in the healthcare delivery system.
07/26/2023
CASA Members in Action
CASA members have been busy this summer advocating for ASCs by opening up their facilities for legislative tours. Healthcare continues to be a priority in the California Legislature. These tours are opportunities to show first-hand how California ASCs provide significant cost savings, innovation, and quality outcomes in our communities.
07/14/2023
CMS Releases 2024 Proposed Medicare Payment Rule
DWC Posts Adjustments to Official Medical Fee Schedule (Hospital Outpatient Departments/Ambulatory Surgical Centers)
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the 2024 proposed payment rule for ASCs and hospital outpatient departments (HOPD) on Thursday, July 14, 2023.
07/12/2023
CASA Benchmarking Open for 2nd Quarter 2023
Is your facility taking advantage of CASA’s free benchmarking? Comparing your ASC outcomes to other like ASCs is important and looked at by accreditation bodies. Benchmarking is also a critical opportunity to utilize quality and performance metrics to improve your clinical outcomes as well as operational efficiencies.
07/07/2023
Under the Dome – Another Day Another Assembly Speaker
By CASA Lobbyist Bryce Docherty
On Friday, June 30th Assembly Member Robert Rivas (D-Salinas) became the 67th Speaker of the California State Assembly. Speaker Rivas, the grandson of farmworkers who marched with Cesar Chavez for farmworker rights, also becomes the first Assembly Speaker in modern history to represent a non-urban area of California.
06/29/2023
Independence Day Reflections
Veteran Spotlight - Chuck Meisel
The 4th of July holds significance beyond just being a day for barbeques and fireworks. It serves as a moment to acknowledge those who have fought for our country and our independence – we can listen to their stories, appreciate their sacrifices, and gain a deeper understanding of their journeys. CASA also wants to recognize the community organizations that are doing important work helping veterans transition successfully from military life back to civilian life, and working through the many hardships that come with that.
06/29/2023
2023 Call for CASA Board Nominations
Submit your Interest by August 18, 2023
CASA Annual Board elections will be held this September at the CASA Annual Conference. There are 3 Board seats open. Two of the seats are for a full, 4-year term, the remaining seat is for a 2-year term.
06/21/2023
CASA 2023 Salary Survey - The Results are in!
The CASA 2023 Salary Survey report is finalized and available. CASA members who participated in the survey have received an email with access to the report.
06/20/2023
Extraordinary Circumstances Exceptions for ASCQR Program
Did you miss the ASC Quality Reporting (ASCQR) Program data deadline of May 15, 2023? If your ASC was unable to submit any required information due to an extraordinary circumstance, your ASC may request an exception.
06/19/2023
Unpacking Life-Safety - Understanding and Addressing Common Deficiencies in ASCs
Join us Tuesday, June 27th, at 2 PM, as CASA hosts an informative webinar with Jeremy Ralston, Life Safety Manager - Clinical Quality Enterprise; SCA Health, as he delves into the critical topic of survey deficiencies for Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Life Safety, exploring proactive measures to prevent them before undergoing survey assessments.
06/13/2023
CASA Annual Conference September 13-15, 2023, in Monterey, CA
Register and make your hotel reservation soon.
September and the CASA Annual Conference will be here before you know it. Make sure you have the dates marked on your calendar and register soon to receive additional discounts. We also encourage you to make your hotel reservation as soon as possible as Monterey is a tourist destination and space fills up quickly.
06/06/2023
ASC Quality Reporting (ASCQR) Program Requirements Continue to Be in Place for ASC-20
On May 31, 2023, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a final rule that withdraws the regulations that had mandated COVID-19 vaccination for healthcare personnel. It is important to note that the CMS 2023 ASC Quality Reporting (ASCQR) Program Requirements continue to be in place including ASC-20.
06/01/2023
CMS Withdraws Healthcare Personnel Vaccination Mandate
ASCs Should Comply with County Recommendations
On May 31, 2023, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a final rule that withdraws the regulations that had mandated COVID-19 vaccination for healthcare personnel.
05/31/2023
CASA Award for ASC Excellence
Application Deadline is June 30, 2023
The deadline is quickly approaching and CASA is encouraging all of our members to consider applying for the CASA Award for ASC Excellence. This is a great opportunity to have your ASC acknowledged by your peers and further let the public know the service you provide.
05/25/2023
DWC Posts Additional Adjustments to Official Medical Fee Schedule (Hospital Outpatient Departments/Ambulatory Surgical Centers)
CASA Annual Conference September 13-15, 2023, in Monterey CA
DWC has posted an order adjusting the Hospital Outpatient Departments and Ambulatory Surgical Centers fee schedule to adopt the following Medicare updates made May 10, 2023.
05/22/2023
Are You Taking Advantage of One of CASA’s Biggest Benefits to Help You Meet the Staffing Crisis?
Hear how Andrea Gallardo used it for her center’s success.
In the CASA member survey, one of the greatest areas of concern for ASCs was access to trained perioperative nurses and the overall staffing shortage. The CASA Board implemented a special committee to research opportunities to assist our members with meeting these demands.
05/11/2023
CASA Attends Hiring Our Heroes Career Fair
Veteran Spotlight - Dr. Robert S. Bray Jr., MD
On May 9, 2023, CASA Executive Director Beth LaBouyer and CASA Veterans Committee member Chad Smith, Administrator, Sutter Alhambra Surgery Center represented the ASC industry at the Hiring Our Heroes Career Fair in San Francisco. Check out our Veteran Spotlight-Dr. Robert S. Bray Jr.
05/11/2023
Monday is the Deadline for CMS Quality Reporting to Avoid Penalties
May 15, 2023, is the deadline for Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Quality Reporting in order for facilities to avoid a reduction to the following year’s Medicare reimbursement. May 15, 2023, is also the deadline for CASA Benchmarking
05/02/2023
CASA Benchmarking and CMS Quality Reporting Deadlines Approaching
The system is open for data entry for the 1st quarter of 2023, and closes May 15, 2023. May 15, 2023, is also the deadline for Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Quality Reporting in order for facilities to avoid a reduction to the following year’s Medicare reimbursement.
05/01/2023
CASA Celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is a time to recognize and honor the rich history, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) to the United States. This month-long celebration provides an opportunity to highlight the achievements, struggles, and contributions of AAPI communities, while also promoting awareness and understanding of their heritage and experiences.
04/24/2023
CASA Members in Action
On April 5, 2023, Assemblymember Juan Alanis (R-Modesto) toured the Sutter Gould Medical Foundation, Briggsmore Surgery Center and on April 20, 2023, Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen (D-Elk Grove) and her assistant Giezi Bermudez toured Endoscopy Center of South Sacramento.
