Episode Overview

Podcast: Becker’s Healthcare Podcast
Episode: Conversation with Carrie Marut, Administrator, Mentor Surgery Center
Date: October 25, 2025
Host: Gracelyn Keller
Guest: Carrie Marut

Main Theme:
This episode provides insight into current trends, growth drivers, and collaboration opportunities in the Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) space, as seen through the eyes of Carrie Marut, Administrator at Mentor Surgery Center. Marut discusses technology’s impact, patient-driven growth, and strategic partnerships shaping the future of ASCs.

Guest Introduction and Background

[00:36 - 01:25]

• Carrie Marut details her transition from a large hospital organization to the ASC world five years ago.

• Started as Director of Nursing, quickly promoted to Administrator at Mentor Surgery Center.

• Emphasizes her passion for administration despite her RN background.

  “I'm an RN by trade, but love the administrative world.” – Carrie Marut [01:13]

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. ASC Market Growth and Patient-Driven Expansion

[01:25 - 01:49]

• ASCs in the US are projected to be worth $60.8 billion by 2030.

• Marut identifies patients as a major force behind this growth:

  • ASCs offer a less formal, more welcoming setting than hospitals.
  • Patients perceive lower costs (especially out-of-pocket/deductibles) and increased efficiency.
  • Partnerships with hospitals help direct cases suitable for outpatient surgery to ASCs.

  “I think a lot of the force that's driving the expansion of ASEs are actually patients... They feel a little bit more comfortable with the atmosphere. It's a little less expensive... and it's actually way more efficient.” – Carrie Marut [01:52]

Preparation Advice:

• Expect higher patient volumes.
• Focus on efficient patient turnover and a positive patient experience.

2. Technology Integration in ASC Operations

[02:40 - 04:06]

• Transitioned Mentor Surgery Center from paper charting to an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.

  • Result: Increased nurse-patient interaction, streamlined documentation.

• EHR systems lead to better use of nurse time and improved patient engagement.

• Robotics, while not yet implemented at Mentor Surgery Center, are cited as having a significant impact on faster, less invasive procedures—aspirational for their future growth.

  "The actual time that the nurses get to spend with the patients went up because of the EHR... It allows the nurses to engage with the patients, talk to them a little bit more, make them feel more comfortable.” – Carrie Marut [03:18]

  “We do not currently have robotics... robotics also is huge in how quickly patients can get in and out and how less invasive some of the procedures can be.” – Carrie Marut [03:51]

3. Collaboration and Strategic Partnerships

[04:06 - 05:26]

• Collaboration with vendors is vital to streamline billing, collection, and supply chains, enhancing operational efficiency.

• Joint ventures with hospitals and health systems offer mutual benefits:

  • Drives patient referrals to the ASC.
  • Expands the availability of procedures and reduces operational costs.
  • Ultimately enhances the patient experience.

  “Collaboration is important in any adventure and ase, especially whether it's with your vendors that you choose to help streamline your billing or collecting or anything in your space... As far as joint ventures go, it's always nice to have a partnership with a larger organization who can also drive patients to your ase.” – Carrie Marut [04:25 – 04:52]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “I think people should just be prepared to have a higher rate of patients coming through their door.” – Carrie Marut [02:12]
• “Anything like that that you can you find a good partner who sees the same vision as you do, it's obviously a greater experience for the patient.” – Carrie Marut [04:32]

Final Thoughts

[05:26 - 05:43]

• Carrie expresses gratitude for the opportunity and looks forward to future participation.

  “I just really appreciate being here. Thanks to Alec for having me from CareCredit and I hope that next year I'm able to do the same.” – Carrie Marut [05:33]

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:36 – Host welcomes Carrie and her background
• 01:25 – Discussion starts on market forces and trends
• 02:40 – Technology’s impact on ASC operations
• 04:06 – Role of collaboration and partnerships
• 05:33 – Closing remarks and final thoughts

Summary

Carrie Marut offers an insightful snapshot of operational realities and strategic direction for Ambulatory Surgery Centers. With an emphasis on patient-centered growth, the accelerating adoption of technology, and the power of collaborative partnerships, she illustrates how ASCs can thrive in the evolving healthcare landscape. Her perspective bridges both clinical and administrative worlds, providing actionable advice for ASC leaders positioned for future growth.