Now, the publication is gearing up to release its 2025 iteration, with several tweaks to its plan and methodology.
In 2024, the ratings were based on a number of factors, including “risk-adjusted, objective outcomes such as post-procedure complications, emergency department visits, unplanned inpatient admissions, and other undesirable results,” according to a Feb. 10 press release from U.S. News.
The second annual list will debut March 18, with several methodology-based changes, including two major changes for orthopedic and spine-focused ASCs:
1. ASCs that did not perform orthopedic and spine surgeries for traditional Medicare beneficiaries will not be eligible for the list.
2. Pain centers and ASCs that perform back pain injections but not surgical care will not be considered this year.
Resultantly, approximately 800 ambulatory facilities that received orthopedic and spine recognition last year will not be rated this year.
