Keane To Acquire First Coast Systems

In a move to grow its business in the health-care market, Keane Inc. said today it plans to acquire First Coast Systems, a Jacksonville, Fla., developer of integrated software solutions for the health-care industry.

Keane was attracted by First Coast's large AS/400 customer base. First Coast offers a range of IBM AS/400-based information systems and services designed to meet the evolving needs of integrated delivery networks while allowing the retention of their existing AS/400 operating systems. First Coast Systems' flagship product is the Advanced Patient Care Delivery System, a package of integrated applications that gives the participating provider access to a patient's clinical record at the point of care.

First Coast Systems will combine operations with Keane's Healthcare Solutions Division, which comprises 4% of Keane's annual revenue and 9% of the Boston IT consulting firm's business in the health-care market, says a Keane spokesman.

Although terms of the acquisition have not been disclosed, the transaction is expected to close by the end of the year, pending the necessary approval.