Florida Blue

We're thrilled that our very own Svetlana Bender Ph.D., VP of AI & Behavioral Science, has been named one of the Jacksonville Business Journal's 2025 Ultimate Tech Leaders! This recognition is a testament to Lana's exceptional leadership and vision in driving GuideWell’s and Florida Blue’s generative AI initiatives. Her achievements since joining the company are truly inspiring, from leading the development of our Generative AI Center of Excellence to establishing educational partnerships with top universities and launching innovative tools for our employees. But Lana's impact goes beyond our organization. She's a dedicated champion for women's causes and a leader in the community helping to grow the next generation of tech leaders. We are fortunate to have Lana on our team and are proud to see her recognized for her outstanding contributions. Please join us in congratulating her on this well-deserved honor. #UltimateTechLeaders #WomenInTech #Leadership #Innovation

The back-to-school season produces a mix of emotions for both parents and children. Excitement, nervousness, and anxiety can all be swirling together, making it a challenging time. But parents and guardians have the power to be a steady source of comfort and support for children during this time. Dr. Naakesh Dewan, our VP of Behavioral Health, shares strategies parents can use to provide additional support for their child's mental well-being during the upcoming back to school transition. Read more: https://bit.ly/4kPZRLO

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in work and responsibilities, but neglecting self-care can have serious consequences for your mental health and well-being. You can improve your mental well-being by incorporating self-care into your daily routine, which can increase productivity and enhance your overall quality of life. Start by taking small steps, like taking a walk at lunch or taking a moment for deep breathing to refocus and calm your mind. Check out our BlueAnswer article on self-care to learn more about its benefits and how it can improve your mental well-being: https://bit.ly/47lPiJP

For 25 years, the Florida Blue Foundation has been dedicated to creating healthier communities for people across the state – especially for those in greatest need. This year, the Foundation marks a major milestone, celebrating a quarter century of commitment to improving the health and well-being of Floridians. Watch the full video to hear from leaders as they reflect on the past 25 years and share their vision for the future. https://bit.ly/4m2u8sV

At Florida Blue, we're committed to making health care more accessible and affordable for our members. That’s why we offer a transportation benefit that helps eligible members get to medical appointments or the pharmacy. In 2024, 23,000+ members used this benefit to get the care they need. Learn more about our efforts to remove barriers to care in our GuideWell Impact Report: https://lnkd.in/dvQgwJNR #GuideWellImpact

Florida Blue Foundation is proud to recognize Tampa Family Health Centers with a third-place #FLSapphire award and $25,000 for their outstanding work in providing innovative, people-centered care to those in need. For over 40 years, Tampa Family Health Centers has been committed to ensuring that high-quality care is accessible for every individual, regardless of income or background. Their mission includes an integrated and people-centered approach that supports the whole-person, including primary care, dental care, behavioral health, women's health, pediatrics, and specialty care. In addition to comprehensive health care services and support, they address social determinants of health through programs like food assistance, a community garden, and housing referrals. By providing innovative, people-centered care, Tampa Family Health Centers is reimagining what care can be and making a measurable difference in the lives of those they serve.

Summer is here: The longer days of summer can add hours to an already long workday. Whether those hours are spent playing frisbee at the beach with friends or crunching numbers on a spreadsheet with coworkers, it’s essential to prioritize your eye health this time of year. Why regular checkups matter: Many eye diseases can go unnoticed for a long time, and some don't have any symptoms in their early stages. Staying on top of eye health can help you avoid costly and painful problems down the line that could impact your focus and productivity at work. Stay on top of your eye health: • Schedule an annual eye exam. This can help identify and address potential issues early on, making treatment easier. • Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses or protective eyewear when enjoying outdoor time. Prioritizing your eye health is easier with vision insurance, which can make regular checkups more affordable. If you're currently uninsured, don't worry — there are options available to help you get started. Consider speaking with a licensed agent or reaching out to your employer's HR department to explore vision insurance options.

We're excited to share the latest episode of the Jacksonville Chamber’s series, featuring our own Darnell Smith, a leader who embodies our company values. Darnell shares his inspiring journey at Florida Blue, where he's built a team that flourishes on the principles of trust, talent, and connection. Tune in to hear his story and learn how he's making a lasting impact on our organization. Watch now and be inspired by Darnell's leadership and passion for people and purpose. Watch the full episode: https://bit.ly/4lgI9lM

Wishing you a safe and sun-kissed 4th of July, Florida! As your trusted health solutions partner, we're grateful for the opportunity to live life to the fullest. May your Independence Day be filled with joy, good health, and time with loved ones.

Summer safety alert: As the temperatures rise, heat-related illnesses become a serious concern, especially for those who work outdoors. The heat is on: According to the CDC, 92% of heat-related ER visits occur between May and September. That's why it's crucial to know the signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, nausea, and weakness. If someone is experiencing these symptoms, act fast. Have a plan for working in the heat: • Know your nearest urgent care center. • Limit the length of time in the sun. • Take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas to cool off. • Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or liquids with electrolytes throughout the day. The unexpected can happen: Even with the best precautions, the heat can cause health issues quickly. Seek medical attention for yourself or your coworkers right away. Having health insurance can help reduce out-of-pocket costs and provide peace of mind. Those who don’t have insurance can contact their employer’s HR department or a licensed agent for guidance.