3 4 S U P P L E M E N T T O O U T P A T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E A P R I L 2 0 1 6
able to come up with solid estimates. For example, Dr. Miller knows 85% of his
patients will pay $1,400 out of pocket for astigmatism management. Using the
laser costs Dr. Miller in time and effort, so he bumped the fee from $1,400 to
$1,700. Adding the laser to the package tacks on an additional $800, a figure he
negotiated with UCLA administrators. The cost of a premium lens is also $800.
That means patients who want laser-assisted cataract surgery must fork over
$3,300. Dr. Miller says about half of the patients who are willing to pay for astig-
matism management sign up for the laser. He also points out those numbers are
specific to the Los Angeles market.
Dr. Miller advocated for years to add a laser, and finally convinced UCLA to
make the investment last August. Instead of purchasing the laser outright or
securing a loan, the hospital opted for a lease-to-own arrangement with the
manufacturer. It was a viable way for the facility to add the laser without a sig-
nificant capital outlay.
Surgeons must perform an
agreed-upon amount of
cases each month to use
the laser. If they fall short
of the number, the manu-
facturer carts the laser
away. If they exceed it, the
laser stays and a portion
of the profits are applied
to the purchase of the
laser.
Dr. Miller hopes UCLA
is able to own the laser
outright in roughly 4
years. He figures his prac-
tice will enjoy another 4
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