This blog post was authored by Brad Krump, AIA, Principal and Director, BWBR.

As healthcare costs surge and patients seek faster, more convenient, and more affordable care, the pressure on organizations has never been greater. Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) are addressing these challenges, redefining what high-quality, cost-effective surgical care looks like.

Delivering efficiency without compromising outcomes, ASCs are outpatient healthcare facilities specializing in providing same-day surgery without hospital admission. For low-acuity patients with controlled risk factors, these facilities enable streamlined scheduling, reduced costs, and a lower risk of hospital-acquired infections compared to traditional hospital settings. Through strategic, patient-centered, and staff-focused design, BWBR is helping these facilities advance innovative care models and position themselves for the growing opportunities ahead.

Elevating the Experience

ASCs have a unique opportunity to reimagine the patient experience by creating environments that feel less clinical and more human-centered. Many facilities are embracing a hospitality-inspired approach—blending comfort, privacy, and thoughtful amenities.

Features such as warm, welcoming waiting areas, dedicated family zones, fireplaces, cafés or refreshment stations, and access to outdoor spaces and natural daylight all contribute to a calmer, more reassuring atmosphere. This shift not only enhances patient satisfaction but also reflects a broader trend: patients are increasingly choosing ASCs not just for cost and convenience, but for the overall experience.

In and Out

Efficiency is at the heart of the ASC model, and that starts with flow. Carefully planned layouts support intuitive wayfinding, minimize bottlenecks, and protect patient privacy. Separate entrances and exits for patient check-in and discharge, staff, and services can reduce congestion and improve operational clarity.        

Flexibility across pre-op, operating rooms, Post-Anesthesia Care Units (PACU), and stage two recovery helps throughput, creating smooth transitions in the patient journey. Designing recovery spaces that accommodate both stage one and stage two care allows patients to remain in a single room—from immediate post-anesthesia monitoring to discharge preparation. Eliminating transfers not only improves staff efficiency but also enhances patient comfort. Streamlined discharge processes further support a positive experience, helping patients return home quickly and comfortably—one of the core advantages of outpatient care.

Optimizing the OR

Since Ambulatory Surgery Centers typically have a smaller footprint than hospitals, every square foot must work harder. Operating rooms are designed for maximum efficiency, utilizing thoughtful storage, strategically placed equipment, and optimized workflows.

Flexibility within the OR is key—spaces must support a range of procedures while maintaining strict safety and sterility standards. Integrating advanced technology, such as minimally invasive surgical tools and digital imaging systems, allows ASCs to expand their capabilities without expanding their footprint. Support spaces, including sterile processing, storage, and staff work areas, must be carefully coordinated for smooth surgical throughput and reduced downtime between cases.

Future Flexibility

ASCs continue to evolve rapidly as new technologies and procedures move into the outpatient setting. Designing with the future in mind is essential. Facilities must be able to scale operations, integrate new equipment, and adapt to changing care models without major disruption.

This includes planning for phased expansion, creating infrastructure that can seamlessly support future upgrades, and designing operating rooms that can flex between specialties as needed. Ample and well-organized storage is also critical to accommodate growing inventories of tools and equipment.

Ultimately, the most successful ASCs are those that balance efficiency with adaptability—creating environments that not only meet today’s demands but are ready for tomorrow’s opportunities.