Episode Overview

Podcast: Becker’s Healthcare Podcast
Guest: Helen M Lowenwirth, MBA, CASC, Administrator, East Side Endoscopy, LLC
Date: November 8, 2025
Host: Gracelyn Keller

This episode features an insightful conversation with Helen Lowenwirth, Administrator at East Side Endoscopy in New York City. The discussion centers on the dynamic growth of the Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) market, the transformative effect of technological advances, evolving collaboration models, and the increasing recognition of ASCs by payers and policymakers.

Guest Introduction & ASC Background

[00:54-01:30]

• Helen Lowenwirth shares her extensive healthcare management experience, including 14 years at East Side Endoscopy.
• East Side Endoscopy handles about 12,000 procedures annually in a five-room, joint-venture ASC located in Gramercy Park, NYC.
• Structure: Ownership shared between physicians, a hospital partner, and a management company. Staff of about 40 employees.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. ASC Market Growth & Key Drivers

[01:30-03:04]

• The ASC market is projected to reach $60.8 billion by 2030, demonstrating robust growth.
• The most significant trend is the migration of procedures from hospitals to ASCs, particularly in states with restrictive Certificate of Need (CON) laws like New York.
• Quote:

  “The most important thing we’re going to see over the next few years is the transgression of procedures out of the hospital into the ASC markets... The access to care is the real problem, and the ASCs are a big, big part of that future.”
  — Helen Lowenwirth [02:00]

• New York has only about 140 ASCs for 18 million people, indicating strong unmet demand.
• Ongoing efforts to gain regulatory approval for cardiac procedures in ASCs to increase patient access.

2. Technology’s Role in Shaping ASC Operations

[03:04-04:59]

• AI and advanced technologies are becoming integral to ASC operations beyond being “just a buzzword.”
• Specific uses in GI: AI-enabled models boost adenoma detection rates during procedures.
• Enhanced documentation: AI improves consistency in procedural reporting and coding, making processes more efficient.
• Operations: AI assists in areas like scheduling and patient communications, boosting efficiency.
• Quote:

  “The big secret is what is really AI and how can we apply it in our business… We’re seeing a lot in terms of operations. Some of our scheduling modules, how to apply artificial intelligence to improve efficiency—scheduling procedures in the right order, reaching out to patients in advance…”
  — Helen Lowenwirth [03:40]

3. Collaboration Across the Industry

[04:59-05:51]

• 60% of health systems are considering ASC joint ventures; existing partnerships are diversifying.
• Vendors—notably Stryker—are playing increasingly vital roles, often investing in centers and managing complex supply chains.
• Quote:

  “Over the next couple of years, the vendor involvement is going to be key.”
  — Helen Lowenwirth [05:35]

4. Payer Relations & Policy Recognition

[05:57-06:44]

• Helen highlights her work with the New York State Association of Ambulatory Surgery Centers driving engagement with payers and Medicaid programs.
• Growing realization among legislators and payers of the value ASCs provide—lower costs, higher patient satisfaction compared to hospital settings.
• Quote:

  “I think the Medicaid programs and the legislators are beginning to realize the value of ASCs, the benefits of moving the cases from the higher cost hospital settings into ambulatory care, and the patient satisfaction levels.”
  — Helen Lowenwirth [06:12]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “The access to care is the real problem, and the ASCs are a big, big part of that future.”
  — Helen Lowenwirth [02:00]

• “The big secret is what is really AI and how can we apply it in our business… We’re seeing a lot in terms of operations.”
  — Helen Lowenwirth [03:40]

• “Over the next couple of years, the vendor involvement is going to be key.”
  — Helen Lowenwirth [05:35]

• “I think the Medicaid programs and the legislators are beginning to realize the value of ASCs...”
  — Helen Lowenwirth [06:12]

Key Timestamps

• 00:54 – Helen Lowenwirth introduces herself and East Side Endoscopy.
• 01:30 – Trends driving ASC market growth & regulatory challenges.
• 03:22 – AI and technology: Real-world applications and operational impacts.
• 04:59 – Growing importance of vendor partnerships.
• 05:57 – State-level advocacy and payer engagement for ASC value recognition.

Conclusion

This episode provides a concise yet comprehensive look at the evolving ASC landscape through Helen Lowenwirth’s expert lens. It covers critical industry trends, the strategic adoption of technology, innovative collaborations, and the shifting attitudes of payers and policymakers—all reflecting the expanding role and value of ASCs in healthcare delivery.