UK accountancy and business advisory group Azets will absorb BDO's Medical Services team and client portfolio, expanding its specialist Healthcare practice and increasing its advisory presence in the sector. The transaction supports the firm's strategy to strengthen its healthcare-focused accounting and advisory services across the UK while broadening specialist expertise available to healthcare clients.

According to International Accounting Bulletin, the agreement will transfer a portfolio of healthcare clients, including general practitioner (GP) practices and primary care networks (PCNs), to Azets. The transaction also includes the transfer of 16 specialist healthcare professionals, further expanding the firm's dedicated healthcare advisory team.

The incoming team is led by partner Sarah Lock together with directors Juliette Maguire and Louise Barter. Following completion, the team will join Azets' existing healthcare specialists in its Ipswich and Birmingham offices, increasing specialist capacity in both locations and supporting the firm's growing client base.

According to Azets, the acquisition will increase its healthcare client base to more than 600 GP practices, 3,500 GP partners and locums, and 100 primary care networks. The company said the expanded practice will strengthen its ability to deliver specialist accounting and advisory services across a broader network of healthcare organisations.

The transaction follows Azets' acquisition of Ensors last year and represents further investment in the East of England. It also continues the firm's strategy of expanding through targeted acquisitions and specialist team additions that enhance sector-specific expertise.

UK and Ireland Chief Executive Peter Gallanagh said: “This is an important strategic step for Azets and further reinforces our ambition to become the UK’s number one provider of specialist accounting and advisory services to the healthcare sector.”

He added: “We are delighted to welcome Sarah, Juliette, Louise and the wider team to Azets. They bring deep sector expertise, strong client relationships and an outstanding reputation for supporting healthcare professionals. We look forward to the opportunities we can create together.”

The report also noted that Azets recently appointed Dom Caunt to expand its North East corporate finance team. Together with the latest transaction, the investment reflects the firm's continued focus on strengthening advisory capabilities, expanding sector expertise and growing its professional services offering across key markets in the UK.