Florida Blue Members May Face Limited Healthcare Options in Broward County
Florida Blue members in Broward County could soon see significantly reduced access to healthcare providers as contract negotiations with Cleveland Clinic stall.
Yesterday, Cleveland Clinic notified patients that it is currently negotiating with Florida Blue, with a potential out-of-network status for Florida Blue members as early as March 1, 2026. This would impact employer-sponsored plans, Medicare Advantage plans, and Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. The hospital stated, “If we are not able to reach an agreement, Cleveland Clinic may no longer be in-network for Florida Blue members.” Appointments scheduled on or after that date may be affected, though some members undergoing critical treatments like cancer or who are pregnant may qualify for continuity of care benefits.
The potential disruption comes at a time when Florida Blue is already out of network with Broward County’s two major public health systems, Broward Health and Memorial Healthcare System, collectively operating 11 hospitals. This situation could force many residents to reconsider their healthcare coverage during the current open enrollment period. Florida Blue responded to the announcement, stating that Cleveland Clinic “recently notified us that they plan to terminate their current contract” and that the current agreement ensures access through at least May 2026, despite the hospital’s communications.
Florida Blue maintains it is actively working to reach a new agreement with Cleveland Clinic and is also making progress in negotiations with Broward Health and Memorial Healthcare System. “It is unfortunate that their communication to their patients and our members may cause unnecessary concern and confusion,” Florida Blue stated, “and we strongly believe there is ample time to finalize negotiations for a fair and sensible new agreement.”
Officials from both organizations say they remain committed to finding a resolution and avoiding disruption to patient care.
