A new service aimed at improving the lives of eight thousand patients in Somerset who suffer from chronic lung disease and breathing problems is about to get underway.

BUPA has acquired Clinovia, the UK’s home healthcare specialist for £87.7m from Lyceum Capital.

Clinovia has further consolidated its integrated home healthcare services with its fourth purchase of 2006.

Clinovia has taken a further step towards further developing integrated home healthcare services by buying the Kent-based care agency Betacare.

Clinovia, Britain’s most experienced home healthcare provider, has made its first acquisition by buying Guardian Homecare and Guardian Care Support Services.