New Medicare Advantage PPO Agreement Signed Between Florida Blue and IMG

Florida Blue, Florida’s Blue Cross and Blue Shield Company, has signed a new Medicare Advantage PPO network agreement with Intercoastal Medical Group (IMG) in Sarasota, Fla.

With this expanded agreement, BlueMedicare Regional PPO members in western Florida can take advantage of IMG’s regionally renowned health care services. The agreement took effect on Dec. 1, 2012.

“We are truly excited to welcome IMG into our Medicare Advantage network,” said Elizabeth Strombom, vice president, Medicare Solutions, Florida Blue. “With this expanded agreement, our members can take advantage of their quality service and care. We are especially delighted that this agreement included our zero-premium Medicare Advantage PPO plan.”

“The partnership of Intercoastal Medical Group with the Florida Blue’s Medicare Advantage PPO program gives their members greater choice and access to high quality health care through our physicians and medical facilities,” said Geoffrey G. Simon, FACMPE, administrator for Intercoastal Medical Group. “The relationship complements our commitment to providing excellent and accessible health care in southwest Florida.”

About Intercoastal Medical Group

IMG is a professional association of more than 60 physicians in 18 specialties, serving Sarasota and Manatee counties with six locations. Founded in 1993, Intercoastal features a team of board certified, experienced physicians, all of whom completed their residency training programs in either the United States or Canada. A majority of IMG physicians have completed fellowship training in important specialties and sub-specialties.

About Florida Blue

Florida Blue, Florida’s Blue Cross and Blue Shield company, is a leader in Florida’s health care industry. Our mission is to help people and communities achieve better health. Florida Blue has approximately 4 million health care members and serves 15.5 million people in 16 states through its affiliated companies. Florida Blue is a not-for- profit, policyholder-owned, tax-paying mutual company. Headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., it is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies. For more information, visit www.FloridaBlue.com.