MIAMI — Florida Blue said Thursday they are helping customers who are unable to pay their premiums that would otherwise have been subject to termination of coverage.
The health care provider said it is implementing an extended grace period through May 31 for clients facing financial problems due to the economic downturn from the coronavirus.
Florida Blue said the grace period applies to the following members:
- Affordable Care Act
- Medicare Supplement
- Other individual health plan members, as well as most of its employer group health plans
In addition, Florida Blue said they are working with its self-funded ERISA employers to assist them in meeting the needs of their employees.
“Florida Blue understands our customers and members are facing tremendous uncertainty due to the COVID-19 health crisis. We want to alleviate additional stress and anxiety at this time over the potential termination of their health coverage and allow them to focus on their health and safety,” said Florida Blue president and CEO Pat Geraghty in a written statement.
The decision also includes extending the grace period for non-payment of premiums for its individual and group dental, vision and life insurance plans through May 31.
Florida Blue said they will continue its policy of delaying disenrollment from its Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plans for premium delinquency until annual renewals.
Florida Blue serves more than 5 million health care members across the state.
Florida Blue members with questions about the coronavirus, who have symptoms and need help finding a doctor to do a COVID-19 test or any other concern, should call Florida Blue at the phone number on the back of their member ID card or 1-800-352-2583. Medicare members can call 1-800-926-6565.