ST. LOUIS—EyeCare Partners LLC (ECP), a network of full-scope medical optometry and ophthalmology practices, has expanded in the Cincinnati optometry market with the acquisition of Mariemont EyeCare, the optometry practice of Mark Kuhlman, OD, according to an announcement late last week.

This marks the third acquisition for ECP since early March.

Backed by the private equity firm FFL Partners, ECP has projected that it will reach 275 locations by the end of 2018, as VMAIL reported in mid-March. The company (with more than 240 locations currently) also told VMAIL at that time that it was in active discussions with more than 50 eyecare practices, and that it expected to close 10 optometry and ophthalmology transactions in Q2 2018.

In its most recent deal, ECP adds Mariemont EyeCare, which it said has expertise in contact lenses and eyeglasses, LASIK evaluation, vision exams, and the evaluation and treatment of cataracts and glaucoma. Mariemont EyeCare is joining Clarkson Eyecare's Ohio team, according to a spokesman. Mariemont EyeCare has offered “the highest quality vision care and state-of-the-art technology to Cincinnati residents for over 20 years. As a result of its commitment to patient-focused care, the practice has won the Super Service Award from Angie’s List, an award earned only by the top performing 5 percent of businesses per category,” according to the ECP announcement.

“I am excited to be part of the ECP team,” Dr. Kuhlman said. “This combination allows me to focus on patient care while ECP provides support. I look forward to offering ECP’s innovative technology and exceptional optical products, and feel my patients will benefit from this new partnership.”

“Mariemont EyeCare is a perfect addition to our growing network of optometrists and ophthalmologists, with its highly skilled opticians, patient-focused practice and efficient business operations,” added Dr. James Wachter, chief professional officer of ECP.

ECP chief executive officer Kelly McCrann said ECP looks forward to working with Mariemont EyeCare to serve patients in Cincinnati and throughout Ohio. “Partnerships with cutting-edge practices like Mariemont EyeCare are part of ECP’s overall strategy to increase patient access to high-quality vision care across the United States,” he added.