At Health Plan Markets, we pride ourselves on staying ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. That’s why I’m excited to share the incredible insights from the recent HealthFirst 2025 Kickoff event. HealthFirst is more than just a partner—they’re a key player in reshaping healthcare in Florida, and their vision for 2025 is nothing short of inspiring.
A Partnership Rooted in Community
HealthFirst has always stood out in the healthcare world for their commitment to the communities they serve. As a provider-owned, nonprofit organization, they’ve built deep partnerships with Advent Health, focusing not just on delivering care but on truly giving back. This approach is one of the reasons they maintain an impressive 96% retention rate. People stay with HealthFirst because they know they’re part of something bigger—a healthcare provider that reinvests in their well-being and the communities they live in.
With a bold vision for 2025, HealthFirst is aiming for 200,000 lives under management, targeting an ambitious 18% year-over-year growth. These aren’t just numbers on a page—they represent real people who will experience better, more efficient healthcare.
Leading the Charge in Efficiency and Care
One thing that struck me at the event was how HealthFirst is pushing the envelope when it comes to efficiency. In an industry where delays in authorizations and claims processing are common frustrations, HealthFirst is setting new standards: less than 3 days for authorizations and claims paid within 4 days. This speed is part of the reason they’ve secured a 4.5-star rating for 2025. When you combine efficiency with quality, you get a winning formula that will attract new members and keep existing ones happy.
And with over 4,000 providers in their network, members have access to top-quality care right in their own communities. HealthFirst’s current Medicare Advantage membership stands at 32,000 members, and with expansion into Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties, they’re primed for growth.
A Game-Changer for Individual & Family Plans
On the Individual & Family Plans (IFP) front, HealthFirst is bringing even more value to members in 2025. They’re expanding into Marion, Sumter, Hernando, and Highland counties, and with a strong retention rate of 89%, members can expect a seamless transition into the new plan year without disruption.
The most exciting news? HealthFirst is adding adult dental and vision coverage, with no waiting period for dental services thanks to their partnership with the Liberty Dental Network. This is a game-changer for members who have long needed access to these critical services. They’ve also bolstered their benefits with virtual care, mental health services, and pediatric dental coverage for children up to 19 years old. Although the gym membership benefit will be removed in 2025, they’ve introduced a savings plan with care coordination to help reduce premiums.
In addition, EyeMed is the new vision provider, and members will enjoy discounts on travel, hotels, and restaurants through BenefitHub. These extras help elevate the member experience, providing more than just healthcare—they’re providing value for everyday life.
Simplified Enrollment and Member Support
HealthFirst is making enrollment easier than ever. For on-exchange plans, they’re partnering with HealthSherpa, while off-exchange plans will be managed through their own broker portal. The best part? Our team at HPM can help members with services without changing the agent of record, ensuring continuity and a seamless experience for our clients.
Expanding Medicare Advantage for 2025
On the Medicare Advantage side, HealthFirst is pulling out all the stops for 2025. They’re launching the Emerald Plus plan in Indian River County, which includes a Part B Giveback, making it even more attractive to potential enrollees. They’re also reintroducing the Sunsaver plan in Flagler, Volusia, Highland, and Hardee counties, while strengthening their presence in Lake, Orange, and Seminole counties with Emerald Plus, Easy Access, and Complete Care plans.
With over 150 prescriptions at $0, an easy-to-use OTC debit card, and open access across all plans (no referrals required), HealthFirst is setting the bar high for the competition. They’re even introducing a CMS-approved script that will be added to HPM Shop, allowing for telephonic enrollments, making the enrollment process even more accessible for our clients.
A Bright Future Together
What’s clear from the HealthFirst 2025 Kickoff is that they’re not just growing—they’re innovating in ways that will benefit both members and partners like HPM. With a shared commitment to providing the best possible care and service, I’m confident that 2025 will be a year of incredible opportunity for all of us.
At HPM, we’re excited to continue this journey with HealthFirst, helping our clients take full advantage of these new benefits and grow together. Let’s embrace this new chapter and use these exciting developments to strengthen the way we serve our clients.
Interested in partnering with HealthFirst? Request a contract today by contacting us at support@askhpm.com. We look forward to helping you deliver the best healthcare solutions for your clients.