Source:  Tampa Bay Business Journal

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida Inc. has broken ground for a Florida Blue retail store in Tampa. Florida Blue, a consumer health care center, will be located at 201 N. West Shore Blvd. Construction is expected to be completed by mid-December, a release said.

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield retail center concept debuted in 2007 in Jacksonville and expanded to Pembroke Pines in 2008. More than 3,000 Florida residents have visited the retail centers. As with the existing locations, the new Tampa Florida Blue retail center will offer the community the ability to meet directly with customer service representatives regarding their health care policies. In addition, consumers can work with care consultants to research providers, treatment options and costs.

A focus will be placed on consumer wellness and preventive care, and members will be able to take personal health assessments and participate in free educational seminars on health and wellness topics.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida is a not-for-profit, policyholder-owned, tax-paying mutual company headquartered in Jacksonville.