The Fidelis Care Blog

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.

Did you know that heat is the leading weather-related killer in the United States? Most heat-related deaths are preventable. This summer, Fidelis Care is sharing ways to stay safe and healthy in the heat and sun.

Fidelis Care would like to inform providers that evaluation and management (E&M) services billed on a facility claim with treatment room revenue codes are not eligible for reimbursement. Evaluation and Management procedure codes represent the professional service – the physician or qualified provider’s time, assessment and decision- making.

Fidelis Care is pleased to announce the release of our 2025 Community Impact Report, a comprehensive look at how we worked together to make a difference in communities across New York State.

In 2026, we honor the 100th anniversary of the very first Negro History Week, created in 1926 by historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson. This important week later grew into what we now call Black History Month. Dr. Woodson wanted to make sure that the achievements and stories of Black Americans were recognized, taught, and celebrated across the United States.

Fidelis Care would like to remind providers of the upcoming change to Medicaid pharmacy benefits for phosphate binders used by dialysis patients.

The following sections of the Fidelis Care authorization grids have been updated effective March 1, 2026.