What Makes an Outpatient Surgery Center Different?

Outpatient surgery centers are uniquely designed to emphasize quality, ease and comfort. One of the key benefits of choosing an outpatient surgery is the convenience of a freestanding center. Learn more about the benefits and features of an ambulatory surgery center.  

What is an ambulatory surgery center? 

Ambulatory centers are stand-alone surgery centers. This means they are not connected to or on hospital campuses. Instead, they are usually freestanding buildings with easier access. Ambulatory surgery centers (also called outpatient surgery centers) are designed for same-day outpatient surgical care. The idea for freestanding outpatient centers began in the 1970s. In the 2000s, these centers grew exponentially. Now, surgeons perform more than 30 million procedures annually in ambulatory surgery centers.  

Outpatient surgery centers must be regulated and routinely inspected. The Joint Commission accredits about 2,200 of the more than 6,000 freestanding ambulatory facilities in the United States. This means that just about one third of these facilities achieve accreditation. Indian Lake Surgery Center is proud to be accredited by The Joint Commission, with its prestigious Gold Seal of Approval.  

Why choose an outpatient center? 

An outpatient surgery center provides a modern surgery experience. Innovation and convenience are key factors when considering outpatient surgery.  Ambulatory surgery settings allow a personalized experience with your doctor. Outpatient surgery suites are designed specifically for outpatient surgery. This means that the equipment and surgery suites are always used for exactly what they were designed for. Patients can expect high standards of care, just like they would receive in a hospital. While outpatient procedures can be performed in a hospital, an outpatient center is often more convenient for eligible patients. For example, outpatient surgery centers offer:

  • Accessible parking
  • Streamlined processes
  • Private surgery suites
  • Easier navigation
  • Convenient location

Is there a cost difference? 

Yes, surgeries performed at outpatient facilities may be more cost-effective. Depending on a patient’s insurance, the savings may be significant. By choosing outpatient surgery, patients save on hospital room charges and overnight stays. Cost may depend on patient eligibility for outpatient surgery and insurance carrier guidelines.  

Is outpatient surgery safe? 

Yes, outpatient surgery is safe. In addition to the rigorous quality benchmarks required, outpatient surgery centers are operated by surgeons who provide oversight and expertise to maintain high standards of care. Patients who undergo outpatient surgery are also less likely to be admitted to the hospital post-surgery.  

Orthopaedic surgeries are some of the most common surgeries performed in outpatient centers. With advancing technology, it is now possible to perform total joint replacements in outpatient centers. In fact, Indian Lake Surgery Center performed the first outpatient total joint replacement in Tennessee. If you would like more information on our center, please call 615.265.8038. 


Indian Lake Surgery Center is an outpatient surgery center in Hendersonville, Tennessee. We specialize in orthopaedic and joint replacement surgeries, with regionally recognized surgeons and staff. For more information, please call 615.265.8038. 

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