Spine used 22% of its ASC block time in 2025, according to HST Pathways’ 2026 State of the ASC Industry Report.
The report draws on data from 682 surgery centers in 45 states.
Here are five things to know:
1. Spine block utilization fell from 26% in 2023 to 22% in 2024 and stayed at 22% in 2025.
2. General surgery was the only specialty lower than spine, at 19%. Gynecology and podiatry have dropped for two straight years: gynecology from 47% in 2023 to 35% in 2025, and podiatry from 44% to 36%.
3. Spine also trails on collections. Its net collection rate was 73% in 2025, compared with an 87% average across specialties, the report said.
4. Empty block time raises anesthesia costs. When anesthesia providers don’t have back-to-back cases, they often charge ASCs a stipend to make up the lost revenue, the report said.
5. The report recommends that ASCs require physicians to release unused block time at least 72 hours in advance, send automated reminders, and publicly recognize physicians who use their blocks well, with a target of 70% utilization. Gastroenterology had the highest utilization of the more typical specialties in 2025, at 60%.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.
