It was announced on Tuesday that HCA Healthcare has acquired the largest emergency network in Florida.

The hospital chain in Nashville, Tennessee completed the acquisition of MD Now Urgent Care and its 59 locations last month.Prior to the transaction, HCA Healthcare operated 170 urgent care facilities in the United States

“The addition of MD Now Urgent Care in Florida enhances our already strong capabilities in fast-growing states by providing convenient outpatient care options for our patients,” said Sam Hazen, CEO of HCA Healthcare, in a statement . Press Releases“It also connects MD Now patients to a statewide comprehensive care network, including emergency care and specialist services when needed.”

Jordan Shields, a partner at Juniper Advisory, said that the acquisition shows that the industry is continuing to shift from hospital care to outpatient care, as well as the expansion of convenient and low-cost care facilities. She said that providers and payers are beginning to see first-line doctor services as the future.

“In the past few years, hospital M&A activity in Florida has been very active, and major systems such as HCA, Steward Health Care System, Cleveland Clinic and others are seeking to expand their positions in an attractive market with a growing population and an aging population.” Shields said.

From planning the construction of new facilities to its US$3 billion investment plan, which includes a US$360 million renovation, equipment and university hospitals, HCA Healthcare has long been focus on Florida’s lucrative healthcare market.