Advocare, one of the region’s biggest independent physician groups, just got bigger. Surgical Specialists of New Jersey, among the state’s largest independent practices, recently joined the Marlton-based Advocare network.

Locally, the 19-surgeon practice includes Advocare Hager Advanced Vein Care in Manahawkin (formerly Surgical Specialists of New Jersey – Manahawkin). There, medical director Jeffrey C. Hager, DO, FACOS, and his team evaluate and treat venous and arterial diseases, including varicose and spider veins.

The practice’s other four groups, spread across South Jersey, specialize in general surgery, bariatric surgery, colon…