Merritt Healthcare Solutions is actively evaluating opportunities for the establishment or acquisition of Ambulatory Surgical Centers ("ASC’s"). This includes both single and multi-specialty facilities.

The last 20 years has witnessed tremendous growth in the number of ASC's in operation. At MHS, we believe the ASC industry will continue to experience strong growth into the foreseeable future as outpatient facilities continue to leverage their ability to deliver high quality, cost efficient services to physicians, patients and the payor community. For physicians interested in developing an ambulatory surgical center, the following list details some of the advantages of ASC’s.

Patient Satisfaction: Patients appreciate the quality and efficiency of treatment delivered at an ASC. Oftentimes they view the center as a direct extension of the physicians practice, creating value for the physicians reputation in the patient community.

Economic Benefits for Physicians: ASC’s provide a financial investment opportunity previously unavailable to physicians. As equity partners in the ASC, physicians have the opportunity to earn significant income through profit participation in the center in addition to their professional fees. Moreover, ownership is an ASC is a valuable asset. Equity in a licensed ASC is transferable and can be sold to other physicians or ASC developers. Sales prices routinely achieve high multiples on earnings, reflecting the growth potential that investors assign to these assets.

Economic Benefits for Patients and Payors: ASC’s offer a safe, efficient and cost effective environment to perform outpatient surgery. They have proven the ability to provide healthcare services at a much lower cost than hospital outpatient departments due to the operational efficiencies they deliver.

Physician Control and Ease of Use: The ASC is designed and managed to provide its physicians with an optimal environment in which to perform procedures. The ASC offers increased accessibility, and operational efficiencies which translate into increased patient satisfaction.

Physician Productivity Increases: Due to the operational efficiencies of ASC's, a greater number of procedures can be performed than in most hospital settings, without compromising safety or the level of patient care. This allows physicians to utilize their time more effectively, creating increased capacity for new patients and greater income potential for the physician.