Podcast Summary: Becker’s Healthcare Podcast

Guest: Todd Currier, CEO/Administrator at Bend Surgery Center

Date: October 26, 2025
Host: Gracelyn Keller
Recorded at the 31st Annual Business and Operations of ASCs

Episode Overview

This episode spotlights the dynamic evolution of the Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) market. Todd Currier, CEO and Administrator at Bend Surgery Center, draws on his two decades of ASC experience and his earlier work as a CPA to analyze industry growth, the shift of procedures from hospitals, and the rapidly advancing role of technology—including AI and robotics. He also offers perspectives for ASC leaders on advocacy, adaptation, and seizing new opportunities.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Todd’s Background and Perspective

• (00:54–01:41)
  • Todd Currier shares his career journey:
    • 17 years as a CPA, with extensive healthcare consulting and auditing.
    • 20 years in ASC leadership, from smaller centers to his current large, multi-specialty ASC in Oregon, which manages around 15,000 cases annually.
  • “I really fell in love with the industry...have been able to work in a variety of different types of ASCs...We do about 15,000 cases. We're multi-specialty in Oregon and really love the direction that we're going.” — Todd Currier (01:17)

2. Growth of the ASC Market

• (01:41–03:38)
  • The US ASC market is projected to reach $60.8 billion by 2030.
  • Major growth drivers:
    • Ongoing shift from hospital-based to outpatient procedures.
    • CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) adding more procedures to ASC coverage, recognizing their value.
    • Advances in technology and surgical techniques, enabling safer, higher-acuity outpatient procedures.
  • Todd’s advice to ASC leaders:
    • Remain active in the industry—engage with conferences, state associations, and national groups (ASCA).
    • Be proactive advocates: educate legislators and the public about the quality and community impact of ASCs.
  • Notable Quote:

    "Be active and speak with your legislators. Make sure people are aware of the quality care we do every single day. You'll be amazed that a lot of people out there don't understand or realize what we do for our communities." — Todd Currier (02:59)

3. Technology’s Transformational Role in ASCs

• (03:38–05:28)
  • Technology is a central driver in delivering care and managing operations at scale.
    • AI and EHR systems provide data-driven insights, essential for operational efficiency as financial margins tighten.
    • Robotics are expanding beyond joint programs, with soft tissue robotic-assisted procedures entering the ASC market.
  • Todd emphasizes the importance of technology for efficiency:
    • “I'm a data guy...the AI and the EHR tools really provide a lot of data to help us streamline our operations and make them more efficient as our margins continue to get smaller.” (04:23)
  • The future impact of robotics and AI will unfold over the next 5–10 years.

4. Most Transformative Innovation on the Horizon

• (05:00–05:28)
  • AI is seen as potentially the most transformative development, though its full impact is not yet realized.
  • Notable Quote:

    “I think we are on the cusp of understanding what AI can do for us. There's a lot of positives...and a lot of unknowns...that make it scary. So I think we're definitely on the cusp of what could be very innovative and helpful in our industry.” — Todd Currier (05:08)

5. Final Thoughts & Advice for ASC Leaders

• (05:28–06:21)
  • Networking and peer engagement—through conferences and associations—are vital for staying informed, identifying new opportunities, and sustaining growth.
  • Notable Quote:

    “The biggest thing I would leave is to continue to be active within the association...We're in a stage right now where we're seeing a lot of growth and a lot of opportunity ahead.” — Todd Currier (05:51)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “Be active and speak with your legislators. Make sure people are aware of the quality care we do every single day.” — Todd Currier (02:59)
• “I'm a data guy...the AI and the EHR tools really provide a lot of data to help us streamline our operations and make them more efficient as our margins continue to get smaller.” — Todd Currier (04:23)
• “I think we are on the cusp of understanding what AI can do for us...That's yet to be seen.” — Todd Currier (05:08)
• “The biggest thing I would leave is to continue to be active within the association...We're in a stage right now where we're seeing a lot of growth and a lot of opportunity ahead.” — Todd Currier (05:51)

Timeline of Key Segments

• 00:54–01:41 – Todd’s background and introduction to the ASC industry
• 01:41–03:38 – Market growth trends and advice on industry engagement & advocacy
• 03:38–05:00 – Technology’s role: EHR, AI, robotics, and operational efficiency
• 05:00–05:28 – The potential and uncertainty of AI in healthcare
• 05:28–06:21 – Closing thoughts: importance of networking and staying active in the industry

For ASC leaders and healthcare professionals, this episode provides a concise look at the evolving landscape of ambulatory surgery centers—and the essential role of adaptability, technology, and advocacy in navigating coming changes.