Director, Ambulatory Surgery Center Development & Operations

Hackensack Meridian Health - Edison, NJ

Full-time

Edison, NJ

Hospitals

About the position

The Director of Ambulatory Surgery Center Development and Operations at Hackensack Meridian Health is responsible for the planning, development, and successful opening of new ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). This role encompasses overseeing regulatory compliance, facility design, staffing, financial planning, equipment procurement, and operational readiness, ensuring that the ASC is launched efficiently and in compliance with all applicable laws and industry standards.

Responsibilities

• Support the business planning process by validating financial forecasts, capital requirements, and operating budgets.
• Work with stakeholders to define the ASC's scope of services and specializations.
• Ensure the ASC meets all federal, state, and local regulations, including licensing and certification requirements.
• Oversee the preparation and submission of applications for licensure and accreditation with bodies such as CMS, AAAHC, or The Joint Commission.
• Develop policies, procedures, and operational guidelines to ensure compliance with all relevant healthcare regulations.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure the ASC facility is designed in accordance with clinical requirements, patient safety standards, and regulatory guidelines.
• Oversee the construction process, ensuring that timelines and budgets are adhered to and that all facilities meet healthcare-specific standards.
• Ensure proper design for patient flow, infection control, and efficient use of space.
• Identify and procure the necessary medical equipment, surgical tools, and technology for the ASC.
• Ensure that all medical equipment and technology systems, such as electronic health records (EHR), billing software, and scheduling systems, are installed and functional before the opening.
• Support the establishment and management of vendor relationships and assist with negotiating contracts to secure cost-effective deals on equipment and services.
• Develop staffing plans based on the ASC's size, scope of services, and expected patient volume.
• Assist in recruiting and hiring key personnel including the core leadership team (Administrator, Director of Nursing, Business Office Manager, and Materials Manager).
• Ensure proper credentialing and training for all staff members, including orientation on policies and procedures.
• Oversee the development of workflows, protocols, and processes to ensure the smooth operation of the ASC once it opens.
• Conduct operational readiness assessments to ensure the facility is prepared to handle patients, procedures, and emergencies.
• Implement and train staff on quality assurance programs, infection control protocols, and patient safety initiatives.
• Establish relationships with insurance companies, payers, and Medicare/Medicaid to ensure the ASC's reimbursement models are in place.
• Set up revenue cycle management processes, including billing and coding systems, to ensure timely and accurate payments.
• Oversee financial planning, including budget management, capital expenditures, and cash flow projections for the pre-launch period.
• Assist with the creation of the ASC's brand, including logo, website, and promotional materials.
• Coordinate the ASC's opening, ensuring that all operational, clinical, and logistical elements are in place.
• Provide ongoing support during the initial post-launch period to address any operational challenges and ensure a successful start.
• Monitor performance metrics and provide recommendations for optimization and growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, business management, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in healthcare facility planning, development, and operations, preferably in an ASC or outpatient setting.
• Deep understanding of ASC regulations, licensing, and accreditation processes.
• Strong project management skills with experience overseeing complex, multi-phase healthcare facility launches.
• Financial acumen and experience with budgeting, capital planning, and revenue cycle management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient computer skills that include but are not limited to Microsoft Office and/or Google Suite platforms.

Nice-to-haves

• Master's degree in healthcare administration, business management, or related field.
• Knowledge of healthcare software systems (EHR, billing, scheduling).
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Expertise in facility design, construction, and operational planning within healthcare environments.