Becker’s Healthcare Podcast Dr. Nikhil Shetty, Chief Operating Officer, Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists
Dec 15, 2025
Dr. Nikhil Shetty, an interventional pain physician and COO at Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists, dives into the growing role of independent ASCs in healthcare. He highlights how technology, like AI and video tools, enhances patient education and operational efficiency. Dr. Shetty discusses the importance of price transparency in showcasing cost benefits and attracting more patients. He also delves into the shift toward personalized care and lean workflows that set ASCs apart from traditional hospitals, all while sharing insights gained from pandemic challenges.
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ASC Growth Driven By Technology And Demand
- ASCs are growing because they solve real problems: hospital overload, patient demand for transparency, and efficiency.
- Improved anesthesia, imaging and minimally invasive tech let ASCs handle higher-acuity cases safely and faster.
Payer Consolidation Pressures Independents
- Independent ASCs face payer consolidation and contract pressure that can disadvantage small physician owners.
- Competing with major hospital systems requires more than outcomes; it demands navigation of complex policies and reimbursements.
Use AI Videos To Improve Throughput
- Use AI-driven tools for patient education and workflow optimization to reduce pre-op delays.
- Share short, physician-voiced videos so patients review procedures before pre-op to improve throughput.