#United States #New York #Fidelis Care #Rural Health #Here for Your Health

Supporting Rural Health Initiatives in New York

In recognition of National Rural Health Day on November 20, 2025, Fidelis Care, a pivotal health plan operating statewide in New York, has awarded an impressive $130,000 in grants to promote innovative health initiatives. This initiative aims to bolster healthcare providers and community organizations dedicated to enhancing preventive care in underserved rural areas of New York State.

This substantial funding underscores Fidelis Care's commitment to addressing the unique challenges that rural communities face in accessing healthcare services. Dr. Vincent Marchello, Chief Medical Officer of Fidelis Care, expressed the organization's pride in supporting local solutions that foster community well-being. He stated, "On National Rural Health Day, Fidelis Care celebrates the resilience and innovation of rural communities. These grants reflect our deep commitment to advancing health equity and ensuring that rural New Yorkers receive care when and where they need it most."

List of Grant Recipients

The beneficiaries of the 2025 Fidelis Care Here for Your Health rural health grants include:

• - Oak Orchard Community Health Center, Monroe County
• - Literacy West NY, Finger Lakes Region
• - United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region, Dutchess County
• - Southern Adirondack Independent Living, Warren County
• - Community Health Center of the North Country, St. Lawrence County
• - Our Lady of Lourdes Memorial Hospital, Tioga County
• - The Rural Outreach Center, Erie County

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), for instance, aims to transform the lives of over 3,000 individuals in rural Western New York by addressing healthcare dependencies and moving people toward self-sufficiency. Frank Cerny, the Executive Director of ROC, conveyed gratitude for the grant, stating, "This support from Fidelis Care gives us the capacity to identify and address emerging health problems through regular visits by community health workers."

Additionally, the Community Health Center of the North Country (CHCNC) will utilize its grant to enhance access to essential dermatological services across its health centers in Northern New York. David Bender, CEO of CHCNC, remarked, "This support will allow us to deliver much-needed dermatology services close to home, ensuring that patients can receive timely, high-quality specialty care without the barriers of travel or cost."

The Need for Rural Health Solutions

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports a concerning statistic: over 60 million Americans residing in rural regions confront significant health disparities. These encompass limited access to healthcare providers, higher rates of chronic illnesses, and scarce medical facilities. In New York State, rural counties grapple with similar challenges, as they are often geographically isolated from essential services.

To counteract these barriers, innovative approaches such as telehealth expansions and community-based health models are essential. By fostering the development of healthcare initiatives that directly cater to the unique needs of rural populations, organizations like Fidelis Care are actively working to address and reduce health equity gaps.

About Fidelis Care

Fidelis Care is a mission-driven health plan committed to providing quality and affordable health coverage across New York State. Operating as a subsidiary of Centene Corporation, Fidelis is dedicated to ensuring all New Yorkers have access to cohesive and comprehensive healthcare services. With over 2.4 million members, Fidelis Care emphasizes the importance of accessible health insurance as a fundamental right.

For more information about the initiatives and ongoing efforts of Fidelis Care, visit their website at fideliscare.org or follow them on social media platforms.

In conclusion, these grants not only signify financial support but also a hopeful future for better health outcomes in New York's rural communities. Through collaboration and commitment, Fidelis Care is paving the way for innovative solutions that prioritize the health and well-being of all New Yorkers.