Florida Blue, Cleveland Clinic Finalize Network Deal as Measles Counts Climb in Florida

ByBrian “Weence” Bateman

Jacksonville, FL – March 10, 2026 – Florida Blue and Cleveland Clinic secure a network agreement as Florida measles cases rise, with Duval among affected counties.

A contract standoff that could have disrupted care for some Jacksonville patients has ended, as Florida Blue and Cleveland Clinic Florida confirmed a new agreement that keeps the health system in network for many members. The update comes as Florida’s measles case totals continue to rise, with Duval County listed among counties reporting cases this year.

Florida Blue and Cleveland Clinic Reach Agreement

Cleveland Clinic announced February 27 that it secured a new contract with Jacksonville-based insurer Florida Blue. The agreement means members with employer-sponsored coverage, Health Insurance Marketplace plans and many Medicare Advantage plans can continue accessing Cleveland Clinic Florida providers at in-network rates.

In the days leading up to the deal, reporting indicated negotiations were approaching a deadline that could have led to out-of-network changes for some patients. Florida Blue had said coverage would remain in place through May while talks continued. With the new agreement finalized, patients with upcoming appointments are encouraged by both organizations to confirm plan details and any required authorizations before scheduled services.

Measles Activity Continues in Florida

Statewide measles counts increased in late February, according to reporting citing Florida Department of Health surveillance summaries. Florida’s 2026 total rose from 92 cases on February 14 to 114 cases on February 21. Duval and St. Johns counties were among those reporting cases this year, with most cases concentrated in Southwest Florida.

Health officials continue to emphasize vaccination as the primary tool to prevent measles spread. Clinicians advise people who develop a fever and rash illness to contact a provider before arriving for care so facilities can take steps to reduce exposure in waiting areas.

Regional Hospital and Emergency Care Expansion

A recent Northeast Florida health care development roundup highlighted more than $1 billion in projects across the region, including emergency and outpatient capacity tied to Jacksonville-area providers.

Among the updates: HCA Florida Memorial Hospital’s freestanding emergency room on Merrill Road in Arlington is now open, and Baptist Health’s McGehee Family Tower project at Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville continues phased construction to expand adult and pediatric emergency services on the Southbank campus. In St. Johns County, UF Health Flagler Hospital has advanced updated exterior signage as part of its integration into UF Health St. Johns, aimed at clearer identification and wayfinding.

What Residents Should Know

Patients with Florida Blue coverage who use Cleveland Clinic Florida providers can review their specific plan documents or contact member services to confirm network status and referral requirements. Families are also encouraged to review immunization records, particularly for measles vaccination, and follow guidance from local health officials.

If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical care. For general questions, talk with a licensed clinician.

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Brian “Weence” Bateman is a health and medical writer who covers public health updates, healthcare policy, and medical developments affecting communities across the United States. He works closely with dentists and healthcare providers and focuses on making complex medical information clear, accurate, and useful for everyday readers.