November/December 2008

BCBSF acquires Florida Health Care Plans

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida (BCBSF) has reached an agreement with Halifax Hospital Medical Center to purchase Florida Health Care Plans, Inc. (FHCP), a non-profit HMO operating in Volusia and Flagler counties. A closing date for the sale will be set following a period of due diligence and regulatory approvals. Upon the transaction’s completion, Florida Health Care Plans will continue to operate as a community-based, local health plan available to residents of Volusia and Flagler counties.

Acquiring FHCP enables BCBSF to leverage the strength of FHCP’s successful, high-quality health care plans, while providing Floridians with an expanded array of affordable health care choices in Volusia and Flagler counties. All FHCP's members will have immediate access to the expanded statewide and nationwide network of BCBSF services and health care providers. The acquisition also gives BCBSF the opportunity to expand its relationships with top health care providers in the state.

FHCP has more than 50,000 members with approximately 300 physicians, 11 clinics and seven pharmacies in the two-county area.