Coming to A Shopping Mall Near You - Health Insurance

There is no surer sign that we are entering the age of consumerism in health insurance than a recent move by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida. Now after buying shoes, and dinning on a lunch of Bourbon Chicken in the Food Court, you can shop for an affordable health insurance policy. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida is one of the first such insurers to go retail - the largest insurance company in the state has opened a flagship "storefront" in a Shopping Center in Northern Florida to take health insurance products direct to the consumer. The stores are called "Florida Blue" and the company plans on opening more depending on the success of this first one.

Florida Blue will market in a retail atmosphere all of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida insurance products including, health insurance, dental and vision care policies. The stores will also provide information on disease management, patient education, and fitness and wellness programs. Each store will be staffed with knowledgeable employees and agents who can actually write policies. Existing Blue Cross Blue and Blue Shield members can come into the store to ask any questions about, or make any changes to their policy.

As we enter a growing trend in self-directed health insurance, the Company recognizes the value of the comfort level of face-to-face contact. It is intimidating enough for consumers to call an insurance company to shop for affordable medical coverage, the storefront puts them at ease, and lets them see they are not dealing with just another "faceless giant corporation" said a company spokesperson. As insurance companies are looking for more and more ways to reach consumers, the industry is embracing the idea of retail stores.  Blue Cross intends to open stores in Miami and Orlando before the end of the year. It is estimated that each store should be able to sign up at least 1500 new members.

Blue Cross said they chose the Jacksonville location for its pilot store because of high visibility and traffic, they said this is an investment in a retail venture, one they want to succeed and they chose this location because of it history of successful retail ventures. The Jacksonville store is open 10AM to 9PM Monday through Saturday, Noon to 3PM every other Sunday. If you do not live in the area or cannot make those hours you can always click here for a free quote on Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance.