The high demand for Florida Blue health coverage has been in overdrive, with more than 1.6 million people joining the system during the marketplace enrollment period.
Company officials told WKMG-TV News 6 the demand is a byproduct of several insurance providers including Humanapulling out of an estimated 39 counties, leaving 300,000 people scrambling for coverage.
As a result, there have been what one source called “glitches” in the system. Morris Gross of Palm Coast said he was the victim of one of those glitches.
“I’ve spoken to people from Florida to Guyana," he said. "One told me to call this number the other told me that number.”
Gross said he has been fighting to get his insurance premiums refunded for the last three months after Florida Blue canceled his policy but kept the payments totaling $530.30.
“Their (Florida Blue) policy is if you miss three premiums--three months. I didn’t miss any premiums.”
Gross called News 6 for help and after the investigative unit got involved, the issue was resolved.
Florida Blue Spokesperson Christie Hyde Dave issued this statement to WKMG News 6:
"We strive to deliver a positive experience for each and every individual we serve
We apologize to any member who recently had an issue and for the frustration and inconvenience it caused. Our customer service leadership is working directly with any affected members to resolve each of their unique circumstances as they are reported to us. “
On Wednesday Gross called News 6 proclaiming he opened his mailbox to find a check from Florida Blue for the full amount.
“News 6 is fantastic," he said. "If ever you need help call News 6.”
Florida Blue reminds every customer that faces an issue to "call the toll-free phone number on the back of their
ID cards, or visit one of our Florida Blue Centers for one-on-one, personal assistance.”