Crist takes health insurance message to two Realtor associations

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – March 6, 2009 – Gov. Crist hit the road today to talk about Cover Florida, the new affordable health care insurance program approved by the 2008 Legislature. Crist has three planned stops today, which include the Daytona Beach Area and Greater Tampa Association of Realtors.

“Lack of health insurance is the number-one barrier to accessing health care, and Cover
Florida can help Floridians remove that barrier,” Crist says. “Even if you have a pre-existing health condition, you won’t be turned away.”

Florida applicants age 19 to 64 without health insurance for at least six months or recently unemployed qualify for Cover Florida health plans. Floridians may also be eligible if, during the previous six months, they have lost employer-sponsored health benefits or are no longer covered by a public health insurance program.

Six health insurance providers have been authorized to offer Cover Florida Health Care plans. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida and United Healthcare are available in all 67 Florida counties with additional carriers in selected counties. The six companies have designed 25 products, and each insurer offers at least two benefit options – one with catastrophic and hospital coverage and one focusing on preventive care.

For more information on coverage, visit the Cover Florida Web site at: www.coverfloridahealthcare.com.

© 2009 FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

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