US-based physician-owned healthcare group CLS Health has strengthened its local foothold through a merger with Cardiac Rhythm Center, a specialist in heart rhythm disorder treatments.
Cardiac Rhythm Center was established in 2021 to serve the Southeast Houston community.
It offers a range of cardiac procedures such as atrial fibrillation ablation, implantation of cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators, left atrial appendage closure, and ablation of complex arrhythmias, among others.
The merger is expected to enhance CLS Health's cardiac care services by introducing Cardiac Electrophysiology as a new speciality within the organisation.
Following this consolidation, CLS Health, formerly known as Clear Lake Specialties, now has more than 24 specialised cardiac providers, expanding its existing presence in Houston’s cardiology domain.
CLS Health CEO Megan Owen said: “This merger not only expands our cardiac care capabilities but also increases our geographical footprint in the Houston area, supporting our mission to deliver top-tier healthcare.
“Our commitment remains firm on maintaining physician independence and focusing on high-quality patient care, especially at a time when healthcare markets often face pressures from external entities.”
According to CLS Health, despite the burdens that traditional mergers often impose, deterring private practices from such integrations, this merger is seen as mutually beneficial.
Through this integration, Cardiac Rhythm Center aims to leverage CLS Health’s resources to streamline operations, improve existing in-house services, as well as expand patient access to specialised cardiac care.
Cardiac Rhythm Center cardiology/cardiac electrophysiology specialist Dr Jose Cuellar-Silva said: “Joining forces with CLS Health is a monumental step for both organisations. It enhances our ability to serve the community and integrates advanced cardiac electrophysiology into a broader spectrum of healthcare services.”
The latest move coincides with CLS Health’s plans to expand its main facilities such as its Clear Lake campus, which is set to receive an additional 100,000ft² for establishing new facilities, including an ambulatory surgery centre and a cardiac catheterisation lab.
CLS Health business development manager Isaiah Rincon said: “These enhancements to our infrastructure, combined with our merger, are designed to set a new standard in comprehensive cardiac care throughout the Greater Houston area.”
