The Fidelis Care Blog

Each April, Black Maternal Health Week calls national attention to one of the most persistent public health inequities in the United States. Black women remain three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women, regardless of income or education. A significant portion of these deaths happen weeks or even months after childbirth, highlighting longstanding gaps in postpartum care and the broader social conditions that shape maternal health outcomes. In response to these realities, Divine Harlem, a community-rooted maternal health initiative based in Harlem and working across New York City, has developed a framework we describe as

If you often have stomach pain, bloating, or trouble going to the bathroom, you are not alone. Many people live with a condition called irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS. IBS affects how food moves through your intestines. It can make your stomach feel uncomfortable or even painful at times. The good news is that IBS is not dangerous, and it does not lead to serious diseases. What does IBS feel like? IBS can feel different for everyone. For many people, it starts with stomach pain or cramping. You might feel bloated, like your stomach is full or tight. Gas is also common. You may

Each April, Arab American Heritage Month is a meaningful time for me to reflect on my roots in Morocco, my journey, and the values that shape both my personal and professional life. As someone with proud Arab roots, I carry with me a deep appreciation for family, resilience, hospitality, and hard work. These values guide me every day. Growing up connected to my Arab heritage taught me the importance of community. In our culture, relationships matter. We check on one another, we support one another, and we show up when it counts. That sense of responsibility toward others has had a

With all the increases in technology, it’s easy to forget that healthcare starts with the people who show up every day wanting to make a difference. At Fidelis Care, we are proud to work with caring and conscientious doctors across New York State.

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. Fidelis Care sat down with one of the experts in our provider network, Dr. Katherine Cartwright of Albany Obstetrics and Gynecology, to learn and share about this painful condition affecting one in 10 women in their reproductive years. Q: What is endometriosis? Dr. Cartwright: Endometriosis is when cells that look and act like the lining of the uterus grow outside the uterus. Most of the time these cells are in the pelvis — on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the outer surface of the uterus. They can also show up on the bladder or bowel. More rarely, they’re

Grants aimed at funding innovative solutions to overcome barriers to care for individuals with substance use disorders LONG ISLAND CITY, NY [May 11, 2026] In observance of National Mental Health Awareness Month, Fidelis Care, a statewide health plan with more than 2.4 million members in New York State and a Centene Corporation company, has awarded $140,000 in Here for Your Health behavioral health grants to eight healthcare providers and community organizations across New York State. This year’s grant theme centers on innovative approaches to reducing barriers to care for individuals with substance use disorders, prioritizing programs that improve access, engagement, and

May is National Stroke Awareness Month, a time to learn about stroke, its warning signs, and how it can be treated. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and a major cause of long-term disability. What is a stroke? A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked or reduced. The brain needs oxygen to work. Without oxygen, brain cells can be damaged or die within minutes. Who is at risk for a stroke? The risk of stroke goes up as people get older, but it can happen at any age. Family history can also play a

In honor of National Nurses Week, we celebrate the compassion, expertise, and dedication that nurses bring to the lives of our members and communities every day. At Fidelis Care, nurses are at the heart of our mission, advocating for better health, guiding members through care, and showing up with empathy when it matters most. This week, we spotlight six of our incredible nurses, who share their personal perspectives.     Mary Oyedijo RN, Senior Care Manager What inspired you to pursue a career in the nursing field? I was drawn to nursing because I’ve always felt called to protect, advocate, and serve. It’s one of the

Everyone feels sad or worried sometimes. But there are times when our thoughts and feelings get in the way of our daily lives and we may need the help of a counselor or therapist. How to know if you need help It can be hard to tell when stress, sadness, or worry has become something you need help with. Consider reaching out for support if your feelings: Fidelis Care can help We want to make sure it's easy for Fidelis Care members to get care. We’ve added more providers to our list

As someone who immigrated from China to the United States as a teenager, Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) heritage means resilience, adaptability, and the experience of growing up between two cultures. Learning a new language, navigating different expectations, and helping my family adjust shaped my perspective early on and taught me the value of empathy, patience, and hard work. My background has strongly influenced how I approach my work at Fidelis Care. Having seen firsthand the challenges faced by immigrant families, I'm especially mindful of the importance of clear communication, cultural sensitivity, and trust.