Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida and Baptist Health Systems Reach Contract Agreement.

Business & News Editors/Health & Medical Writers

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 15, 2000

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida (BCBSF) and Baptist Health Systems of Dade County today announced a two-year contract agreement that will allow the two companies to continue to meet the healthcare needs of South Floridians. The agreement follows several weeks of negotiations.

"Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida is pleased that we have reached an agreement with Baptist Health Systems that will benefit our members, Baptist Health Systems' patients and the entire community," said Bruce A. Davidson, senior vice president and general manager for the south Florida region. "This was a very difficult situation and we regret any inconvenience this may have created for our members. Our focus throughout this process has been on coming to an agreement that will provide our members with access to affordable healthcare solutions."

As Florida's largest healthcare company, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida is dedicated to providing caring solutions and choices to more than 2.7 million members. BCBSF is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies. Standard & Poor's affirmed its "A+" financial strength and credit ratings of BCBSF, and A.M. Best Company affirmed its "A" rating. The ratings are based on BCBSF's strong market position, good earnings profile and excellent capitalization. For additional information about BCBSF, visit its World Wide Web site at www.bcbsfl.com.