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

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

Annual cultural competency training for participating providers is required by the New York State Department of Health.

Fidelis Care has received notice from the Office of the Medicaid Inspector General (OMIG) of new compliance program requirements for Medicaid participating providers.

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

Access to quality care is essential to reducing health disparities and improving the quality and length of life for all New Yorkers.