The Fidelis Care Blog

National Nurses Week, May 6 through 12, is a time to recognize the compassion and dedication provided by these healthcare professionals every day. In observance of the week, we checked in with Fidelis Care nurses Shay Dege, Matthew Garbutt, Kelsey Maslowski, Sherry MacQueen, and Dawn Pankey on why they chose the profession and what it means to them.

May is Healthy Vision Month. This is a great opportunity to learn how to keep your eyes healthy and safe. The National Eye Institute encourages you to: • Get an eye exam. This is the best way to check your vision and know if your eyes are healthy. Talk to your eye doctor about how often you should have one. • Live a healthy lifestyle. Maintain a healthy weight and eat foods like fish and dark leafy green vegetables to lower your risk of eye disease. Don't smoke. Smoking is as bad for your eyes as it is for the rest of your body.

May is Arthritis Awareness Month. It’s a time to spread awareness about the millions of people living with arthritis and share resources for help managing this chronic condition. At Fidelis Care, we’re committed to helping our members navigate their health with confidence, and that includes supporting those affected by arthritis.

May is National Stroke Awareness Month. It's a time to raise awareness about the symptoms and treatment for stroke. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. It is also a leading cause of disability.

As a child and adolescent psychiatrist, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside families during some of their most vulnerable moments. We tend to view childhood as a carefree time that evolves into stress and anxiety once the pressures of adulthood set in. However, that is not the case. One thing remains clear: mental health is just as important as physical health — and this is especially true for children. Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week is an opportunity to reflect on how we can better support young people and break down the barriers that prevent them from thriving.

February is Children’s Dental Health Month. It’s a great time to focus on the importance of good dental care for kids. Strong, healthy teeth help children speak clearly, chew their food, and feel confident when they smile. Building good habits early can prevent problems like cavities, gum disease, and pain.

Winter weather can be dangerous and hard to predict in New York State. With a little planning, you can help keep yourself, your family, and your home safe all winter long. Dress for the Cold It’s important to dress the right way in cold weather.

Effective January 1, 2026, providers are required to submit an authorization request for Group and Family Therapy services that exceed 30 visits in a calendar year.

Every year on the third Monday in January, we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a leader who fought for justice and equality for all. His dream wasn’t just about civil rights, it was also about making sure everyone has the same chance to live a healthy life.

Fidelis Care will host four Provider Office Hours in February 2026.