Rewriting the Business Model of Cardiology: Thriving Beyond Inpatient Care

Cardiovascular service lines (CVSLs) are facing mounting pressures from declining inpatient revenue, rising expenses, and the shift to outpatient care models. This session explores practical strategies for leaders to adapt and thrive within the context of operational and regulatory constraints. Attendees will learn how to assess opportunities to expand ambulatory cardiovascular services, such as ASCs, office-based labs, and co-located outpatient diagnostics. The speaker explores evidence-based approaches to contain costs while preserving quality and engaging the workforce. Participants will understand how to minimize leakage and improve procedural access through streamlined referrals, scheduling efficiency, and CVSL redesign. Finally, the speaker will align CVSL improvement with broader health system priorities, including value-based care initiatives, physician partnerships, and long-term capital investment planning.

Speaker: Amy Brownell, MSN, FNP-C, FACC, Cardiovascular Service Line Director, Ascension Illinois Market