The Fidelis Care Blog

National Pharmacy Week is a time to recognize the vital role pharmacists play in healthcare. We are educators, advocates, and problem-solvers. We are part of the care team, and we are committed to improving members’ lives. As we celebrate the week, I’m proud to reflect on my journey as a pharmacist and the incredible work being done by the Fidelis Care pharmacy team to support our members.

Every year, during the first week of October, we celebrate National Primary Care Week. It’s a time to say “thank you” to the doctors, physician assistants, nurses, and healthcare teams that help keep us healthy every day

Mental Illness Awareness Week is a time to learn how mental health affects every part of our lives, including our physical health. People living with serious mental illness often face big challenges when it comes to staying healthy. Many don’t get regular checkups or see a doctor when they need to. This can lead to health problems that go unnoticed and untreated.

Substance use disorder (SUD) affects many people. It can happen in any family, workplace, or neighborhood. At Fidelis Care, we believe alcohol or drug addiction is not a personal failure. We also know that people need help, not judgment. Why Prevention Matters Addiction often starts quietly. It can begin with stress, trauma, or mental health problems that aren’t treated. That’s why we focus on stopping addiction before it starts. We look for warning signs early. We help people get care that respects their culture and background. We also build support systems with family, friends, and the community

October is Health Literacy Month. It’s a great time to learn how to understand and use health information. Being health literate means you can find, understand, and use information to make good decisions about your health. It can help you: • Read medication labels • Pick a health plan • Ask your doctor questions

Special Supplemental Benefits for the Chronically Ill (SSBCI) can be offered to Medicare Advantage (MA) members who have one or more complex chronic conditions, are at high risk for hospitalization or adverse health outcomes and require intensive care coordination.

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Cervical cancer affects thousands of Americans each year, but it’s something you can prevent. Stay healthy by: * Getting vaccinated * Having regular preventive tests or screenings * Practicing safe sex Preventive tests and screenings are offered at no additional cost to eligible Fidelis Care members.

The beginning of the year is the perfect time to set new goals for a healthier life. Keeping a healthy weight is one way to keep your body well. Obesity: A Growing Concern Obesity means having too much body fat, which can hurt your health. • According to the New York State Department of Health, almost 1 out of 3 adults in New York State is obese. • Obesity can lead to problems like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. • Obesity is often measured by body mass index (BMI). BMI considers a person's weight and height. Click here to find out your own BMI.

Have you recently started to experience feelings of sadness or depression? If so, you may have seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that usually starts in the late fall or early winter. Factors like shorter days, less sunlight, and changes in biological or body rhythms may lead to SAD. It is estimated that SAD affects millions of Americans. Women are diagnosed with SAD more often than men. Know the Symptoms of SAD People with SAD experience mood changes and symptoms similar to depression. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), a person may be diagnosed with SAD if they experience

A new year can feel like a clean slate — and a lot of pressure. If you’ve ever made resolutions only to feel defeated by February, you’re not alone. As a physician, I see real, lasting change happen mostly not through big overhauls, but through small, steady steps that add up over time. Here are a few simple ways to care for your health this year. Aim for progress, not perfection.