Jackson Healthcare, an Atlanta-based healthcare staffing provider, acquired Kirby Bates Associates effective Feb. 17.

Founded in 1988 as a nurse executive retained search firm, Kirby Bates now also provides interim management, coaching and consulting services. It was based in Bala Cynwyd, Pa.

Karen Kirby will remain president and CEO and continue to lead the firm.

“Kirby Bates both deepens and broadens our ability improve the delivery of patient care in health systems, hospitals and other healthcare facilities across the nation,” said Jackson Healthcare President Shane Jackson. “Through this new collaboration, we look forward to further helping clients recruit and retain experienced nursing leadership talent.”

Jackson Healthcare currently employs about 1,200 workers nationwide including 900 associates in the Atlanta area. The company ranks fourth on Staffing Industry Analysts’ 2016 list largest healthcare staffing firms in the US.