HARRISBURG – The Senate approved legislation Wednesday that Sen. Judy Ward (R-30) sponsored to loosen restrictions on Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs) across Pennsylvania.
“ASCs are permitted to provide a variety of same-day surgical procedures, yet current state regulations are very restrictive,” said Ward. “Pennsylvania’s regulations have not been updated to account for the great advances in technology and healthcare delivery over the years. This bill will update these regulations and make our rules similar to other neighboring states.”
Senate Bill 818 updates Pennsylvania’s interpretation and application of onerous and antiquated regulations that require Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs) to seek special authorization to perform certain outpatient procedures that have been deemed safe by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid for more than 15 years.
“I am pleased that the Senate has approved this important piece of legislation that will allow Pennsylvania residents to benefit from high-quality, cost-effective medical procedures performed in a safe outpatient environment,” said Ward.
The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
CONTACT: Nathan Akers, 717- 787-2421