The Fifth District Court of Appeal agreed with a trial court that Florida law does not recognize referral relationships with other physicians as a legitimate business interest that would justify a restrictive provision in an employment contract. In this appeal, Florida Hematology argues that such relationships are business interests under state law. It is seeking to enforce a contract provision to prevent Dr. Tummala, a former partner, from practicing in the vicinity of Florida Hematology within a certain period after leaving the practice. Dr. Tummala argues that the plain language of state law, as well as an earlier decision by the First District Court of Appeal, makes it clear that referring physicians are not a legitimate business interest.