Ep 6 - Inside AECs: Where ‘Skin in the Game’ Meets Innovation, Access, and the Ability to Adapt

See how ambulatory endoscopy centers (AECs) are reshaping GI care—combining independent physicians’ personal investment with “nimble” innovation and improved patient access.

In this episode, Olympus’ Director of Strategic Marketing for GI Diane Locher, joins Dr. Nalini Guda of GI Associates and Dr. Neil Parikh of CTGI & GI Alliance to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of AECs. Learn how these centers streamline procedures, foster team-based care, and rapidly adopt new technologies, all while tackling access deserts and supporting physician well-being. 

Chapter 1: Meet the Guests 

• Diane Locher shares her journey to Olympus and her focus on supporting AECs. 

• Dr. Nalini Guda and Dr. Neil Parikh introduce their backgrounds, independent practice models, and what drew them to GI. 

Chapter 2: Defining AECs 

• What sets AECs apart from traditional ASCs and hospitals? 

• How “skin in the game” or independence drives efficiency, ownership, and patient-centered care. 

• The importance of nimbleness and adaptability in adopting new technologies. 

Chapter 3: Access, Innovation, and Teamwork 

• Tackling “colonoscopy deserts” and improving patient access. 

• The team approach: physicians, nurses, anesthesiologists, and staff working toward a single goal. 

• How AECs serve as “innovation playgrounds” for piloting new GI technologies. 

Chapter 4: Burnout, Well-being, and Technology 

• Physician burnout and how independent models help mitigate it. 

• The role of ambient listening and AI-powered documentation in streamlining workflow. 

• Training, onboarding, and staff support as critical components of AEC success. 

Chapter 5: The Future of GI in AECs 

• Expanding the menu of procedures: from colorectal screening to endobariatrics and pancreaticobiliary care. 

• The evolving partnership between industry, physicians, and healthcare systems. 

• Advocacy and support to enable broader access. 

 

For more episodes by OlympusTalks, please visit olympusamerica.com/podcasts. 
 
This podcast has been paid for by Olympus Corporation of the Americas. The views and experiences shared are those of Dr. Nalini Guda and Dr. Neil Parikh, paid consultants of Olympus Corporation and its affiliates. Olympus makes no representations regarding the accuracy or applicability of the content and disclaims all liability arising from its use. Product performance may vary, and techniques, instruments, and clinical decisions are unique to each facility and practitioner. Always refer to the Instructions for Use (IFU) and applicable labeling for guidance, risks, and cautions. 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: 
 
Take your AEC to the next level—partner with Olympus. Visit our site for training, resources, and portfolio solutions tailored to your needs. Visit, Ambulatory Surg...