The Fidelis Care Blog

"Food Connects Us" is the theme for National Nutrition Month 2025, highlighting the important role that food plays in uniting individuals, families, and communities. It links us to our cultures, families and friends. It creates shared experiences and deepens our connections. Sharing a meal is more than just eating, it is an opportunity to learn about its preparation, who made it, and where the ingredients come from. Our relationship with food is shaped by health, traditions, memories, seasons, and accessibility. While these factors influence our choices, the food we eat, in turn, has an impact on our overall health and well-being.

As a family physician and registered dietitian, during Black History Month, I reflect on the various fearless trailblazers in healthcare and other sectors who broke barriers and overcame extraordinary obstacles to make my life possible. Access to healthcare and poor health literacy are still issues plaguing the Black community. Generally, patients desire a patient-doctor relationship where they feel comfortable sharing their personal and medical history. From my experiences, my Black patients prefer Black physicians; however, there is a severe shortage of Black physicians, which is another barrier to seeking care for many Black Americans.

The eyes may be windows to the soul, but the mouth is the gateway to the entire body. That’s because dental healthcare can be a gauge of overall health. Despite decades of research about the importance of dental health and the repercussions of neglecting teeth and gums, many Americans still lack access to the dental care they need. Only 63% of American adults saw a dentist in the last year. More alarming? Over 25% of young and middle-aged adults have untreated cavities, and almost half of adults over the age of 30 have gum disease.

February is National Children's Dental Health Month. Taking care of teeth early helps children avoid problems like cavities and gum disease. The Child Health Plus (CHPlus) program from Fidelis Care provides dental care for kids, so they can have strong, healthy smiles. With CHPlus from Fidelis Care, children can get essential dental care at little or no cost to families based on income and household size.

February marks Black History Month. Historically, African Americans have been tremendous contributors to our country and achieved great strides in promoting diversity and inclusivity, despite facing many barriers. I am very proud to be a part of the community and honored that there is a month dedicated to my heritage and our contributions.

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.

Fidelis Care will host three Provider Office Hours in August 2025. During the webinars, Fidelis Care staff will be available to share information, provide an overview of provider resources, and answer your questions.

The following section of the Fidelis Care authorization grids have been updated effective September 1, 2025.

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.

Fidelis care would like to inform all participating providers that we will be conducting an Access & Availability Survey in the coming weeks. This survey ensures that providers are meeting NYS mandated Access & Availability standards for all Fidelis Care members.