Jackson Healthcare, one of the largest US healthcare staffing firms, acquired Avant Healthcare Professionals of Orlando, Fla. Avant founder and CEO Shari Dingle Costantini will join Jackson and report to Jackson Healthcare Group President Scott L’Heureux, who leads several Jackson Healthcare companies based in Orlando.

Avant Healthcare works in the field of international recruitment and placement of healthcare professionals. It has more than 650 employees in more than 38 states. It has placed more than 1,800 international nurses, physical therapists and occupational therapists throughout the US.

The deal closed Dec. 29, although terms of the transaction were not announced.

“Avant is the clear leader in international recruitment, an effective solution for filling critical staffing needs,” said Shane Jackson, president of Jackson Healthcare. “We share similar values about caring for professionals and facilities to ensure excellent patient care, and we are confident that our cultures will mesh well.”

Jackson is based in Atlanta, and its 17 portfolio companies employ more than 1,200 associates.

“Jackson Healthcare brings us the strength of one of the nation’s largest healthcare staffing organizations. We will leverage this to meet the tremendous market demand, and continue to excel as industry leaders,” Costantini said. “The Avant team is excited about mission alignment, helping more healthcare professionals realize their American Dream while impacting the lives of patients and clients.”