Government & Grassroots Advocacy

The Power of You

More than 6,000 Medicare-certified ASCs provide care to patients across the country. Despite the large impact the ASC community has on patient access and government savings, many public and elected officials do not fully understand the role surgery centers play in healthcare.

ASCA’s regulatory and legislative successes are dependent on the advocacy efforts of ASCA members. Every day, policymakers decide on issues that directly impact your facility, staff and patients. It is critical that these policymakers understand how their decisions affect their constituents.

ASCA provides different opportunities for members to educate and build relationships with their local and federal officials.

Participate in ASCA's National Advocacy Day

Come to Washington, DC meet with your members of Congress and their health staff to discuss the issues that are impacting your ASC and patients. ASCA’s National Advocacy Day provides the opportunity to make your voice heard and build relationships with key policymakers.

ASCA's 2023 National Advocacy Day was held from February 27–March 1, 2023. Over 70 ASCA members met with 102 Congressional offices to educate members about the ASCs and garner support for the Outpatient Surgery Quality and Access Act of 2023.

Host a Facility Tour

While ASCA continues to educate lawmakers in Washington, DC, there is no substitute for inviting an elected or appointed official into your facility to see firsthand the quality of care that you provide and the satisfaction of your patients. Host a facility tour to show your policymakers how your surgery center provides high-quality, low-cost care to their constituents.

Participate in National ASC Month

Every August, surgery centers across the country highlight the contributions of ASCs by opening their doors to their communities. By hosting an event in your community, you can educate key policy and decision makers about the benefits of ASCs and encourage public awareness of your surgery center. Effective events include inviting your elected officials to tour your surgery center and hosting an open house to provide more information to patients.

For more information on ASCA’s advocacy programs or to get involved, please contact Maia Kunkel at mkunkel@ascassociation.org.