Fall 2009

BCBSF offering a new easy way to buy affordable health insurance

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc. (BCBSF) now makes it even easier for Floridians to buy the health insurance they need for themselves, their family and friends at a price they can afford. Currently BCBSF is offering two innovative products through CVS and Winn-Dixie stores throughout Florida: the $59 Gift of Health Care card and the $19 FamilyBlue Discount card.

This innovative retail channel allows BCBSF to reach a broader audience already familiar with pre-paid products. 94% of U.S. households purchase or receive pre-paid products annually. Just like these other gift and pre-paid cards, consumers can now pick up a BCBSF pre-paid health card located in the pharmacy area of both retailers and call to activate them at their convenience. Once enrolled, they receive their member ID card that they use to present to providers.

The $59 Gift of Health Care cards can be used to purchase one of our health insurance plans. The card is featuring GoBlue; however it can be applied to other products like BlueOptions, based on the level of coverage that is needed. There are some exceptions covered in the terms and conditions of the card. Although this card is not insurance, it gives consumers the ability to use it to purchase the health insurance coverage they are looking for.

The $19 FamilyBlue Discount card gives Floridians access to deep discounts at providers throughout the state. FamilyBlue is not health insurance, but does provide an entire family with discounts on health services and products including dental, prescription and vision for three months for only $19.

We have educated the customers to follow the activation process before they visit a provider. However, you may occasionally get a customer that presents the pre-paid health card they have purchased in the local store. Please direct them to call the number on the back of the card and follow the activation steps in order to receive their member ID and become a member in BCBSF systems.

The cards will be available in Winn-Dixie at the end of September 2009 and CVS at the end of October 2009.