The Fidelis Care Blog

Each August, we celebrate National Health Center Week to recognize the people and places that help keep our communities healthy. Health centers are more than just clinics, they are trusted neighbors that provide comprehensive care to millions of families, regardless of their income or background.

Each year, National Breastfeeding Month in August offers a chance to celebrate the strength, resilience, and nurturing power of mothers, and to recognize the community efforts that make breastfeeding success possible. At Oswego County Opportunities, Inc. (OCO), we know that breastfeeding is about more than milk, it’s about connection, healing, and the foundation of lifelong health.

August is National Immunization Awareness Month. It’s a time to highlight the importance of vaccines for people of all ages. Vaccines are a safe and effective way to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community from serious diseases. Staying up to date with recommended immunizations helps prevent the spread of illness and keeps everyone healthier. Talk to your primary care provider (PCP) about which vaccines are right for you and your family.

Each July, National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month calls on us to recognize the disproportionate impact of mental illness on racial and ethnic minority communities—and to recommit to breaking down the systemic barriers that stand in the way of healing.

As we spend time outside this summer, Fidelis Care is sharing ways to help enjoy pest-free outdoor living. 1. Use insect repellent. Ticks and mosquitoes carry diseases and can cause serious health risks. Apply insect repellent to your skin and clothing to lower your risk. 2. Remove or avoid standing water. Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water. Lower your chances of being bitten by removing standing water (birdbaths, ponds, and planters) from your backyard.

Fidelis Care is pleased to announce a new addition to the Provider Manual—the Quality Policy.

Fidelis Care’s Pharmacy Services would like to provide clarification on how medications are covered under member’s medical and pharmacy benefits.

NY State of Health has notified health plans and members of Essential Plan 200-250 (also known as Essential Plan 5) that plan coverage will end. The last day of coverage is June 30, 2026.

You asked and we listened! Fidelis Care is pleased to announce that Authorization Determination letters on Fidelis Care’s Provider Portal, will now indicate if the letter is an Initial Adverse Determination (IAD) or a Final Adverse Determination Letter (FAD).

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