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.

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

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.

When someone you care about finds out they have breast cancer, it can be scary and confusing—for them and for you. You might not know what to say or how to help. But just being there for them can make a big difference. Here are some simple and kind ways to support a loved one during this tough time.

Fidelis Care is partnering with Healthmap Solutions (Healthmap) to provide care coordination services within our kidney health management (KHM) program.

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