Member Newsletter | Spring 2026

Protecting your teen’s health: Important vaccines for ages 9–13

As your child grows into their teens, staying healthy becomes even more important. One of the best ways to protect them is to make sure they get the vaccines recommended for ages 9 to 13. These vaccines prevent serious illnesses that can cause long-term health problems.

 

What vaccines does your teen need?

  • Tetanus, Diphtheria, and acellular Pertussis (Tdap) vaccine

Protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). These infections can spread easily and cause serious sickness.

  • Meningococcal vaccine

Protects against meningitis, a dangerous infection that can lead to brain damage or even death. Teens and young adults are at higher risk.

  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine

Protects against human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus that can lead to several types of cancer later in life.

 

The HPV vaccine helps prevent cancer

Some parents may feel unsure about the HPV vaccine, especially because it is recommended at a young age. Here is what’s important to know:

  • The HPV vaccine helps prevent cancers that can appear in adulthood.
  • It works best when given long before the body may be exposed to the virus. This means it is most effective when given well before the onset of sexual activity.
  • It is one of the safest and most effective ways to protect your child’s future health.

Thinking of the HPV vaccine as a cancer prevention tool can help make the decision easier. It is about keeping your child healthy for many years to come.

 

Why getting vaccines on time matters

Getting vaccines on time helps protect your child now and as they grow. Each vaccine adds important protection that lasts into adulthood.

 

Staying on schedule can:

  • Strengthen your child’s protection against serious illnesses.
  • Support long-term health into their teen years and adulthood.
  • Help prevent avoidable health problems by giving them a smoother path as they grow.
  • Give you peace of mind knowing they are protected.

 

Every on-time vaccine supports a healthier future for your child.

 

What you can do today

If you would like help scheduling your child’s vaccine appointment, annual well-child visit, or learning more about these important vaccines, please call the AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio Pediatric Wellness Department at 1-833-891-1700. Our team is here to support your family’s health every step of the way.

 

Sources:

“Vaccines by Age,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), accessed March 10, 2026.

“Recommended Vaccinations for Children”[JW1] [JP2]  CDC, February 11, 2026.

“Reasons to Follow CDC’s Recommended Immunization Schedule,” CDC, August 9, 2024.
School-based health centers

What are school-based health centers?

Many school districts have school-based health centers (clinics) on site. A school-based health center makes it easy for your child to receive their yearly well visit, immunizations, mental health visits, dental or vision visits, care for minor illnesses, and even assistance with ongoing management of problems like asthma or diabetes. School-based health centers differ in the range of services offered.

 

Why is this important?

  • These clinics can provide health services to your child during their school day.
  • School-based health clinics support student health, helping students get care without missing school or falling behind in learning.
  • Parents and guardians do not have to take time away from work.
  • Parents and guardians do not have to arrange childcare for other children.
  • Because care happens at school, you do not have to worry about getting your child to a doctor’s office.
  • Clinics provide parents and guardians with additional options for healthcare visits.

As a parent, how do I stay involved in the visits?

  • You’re always included. Before any care is provided at the clinic, you will be consulted so you know what’s happening and can share your input.
  • Simple forms help clinics understand your preferences. Each clinic has a few forms for parents or guardians to complete, including a consent form. This form lets you tell the clinic your preferences and how you want to be involved. Follow-up appointments are easy to schedule. If your child needs another visit, the clinic can often schedule the follow-up appointment right at the school.

If you would like more information on school-based health centers in your district, the services offered, or scheduling an appointment, please call AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio’s Pediatric Wellness Department at 1-833-891-1700.

Play ad-free mobile games through the Motivv app

Use your phone and follow these steps to download:

 

1. Visit the App Store or Google Play.

2. Select one of the games from Motivv Health Studios, LLC, and download it.

3. Create your account. You will need your AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio Member ID. The activation code is ACOH.

4. Start playing and earning CARE Card funds. Answer health trivia and earn CARE Card rewards at no cost to you!

https://delivr.com/2jwu9
Your care should not come with a bill

Ohio Medicaid covers your care with no surprise bills! 

 

As an Ohio Medicaid member, you should not get a bill from your doctor or other healthcare provider for covered services.

 

What this means

Most healthcare services covered by Ohio Medicaid are provided at no cost to you. Healthcare providers agree to accept payment from AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio as payment in full. This means you should never be asked to pay extra for a covered service.

 

If you get a bill 

Do not pay it. Call AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio Member Services at 1-833-764-7700 (TTY 1-833-889-6446), 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We will help you fix the problem right away.

 

Important to know 

Sometimes, you may choose to pay for a service that Ohio Medicaid does not cover. If you agree to pay for a non-covered service, your doctor or healthcare provider must tell you before you get the service and give you something to sign.

 

Your healthcare should never be a surprise. If you have questions, call Member Services at 1-833-764-7700 (TTY 1-833-889-6446), 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Are you using your CARE Card?

Many AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio members already use their CARE Card to shop at many stores in Ohio. Not using your CARE Card yet? Start today! It only takes a few minutes to start earning money for doing simple checkups.

 

How to use your CARE Card:

Call 1-888-682-2400 to turn on your card. You can go to My Benefits Center and sign in. Have your health plan ID card ready.

 

You can earn rewards like:

  • $50 when you fill out your yearly health form (HRA)
  • $30 – $50 when you go to your checkup and screenings
  • $25 when you get your flu shot

 

Where can you use your CARE Card

You can use your CARE Card at more than 2,700 stores across Ohio. Some of the most popular stores include:

  • CVS Pharmacy
  • Dollar General
  • Family Dollar
  • Giant Eagle
  • Kroger
  • Meijer
  • Walgreens
  • Walmart

 

Bring your CARE Card when you shop for the following items:

  • Healthy foods
  • Baby items
  • Family planning
  • Women’s care
  • Eye care
  • Over-the-counter medicines (medicines you can buy without a prescription)
  • Wellness supplies
  • Everyday needs

 

Need help? Call Member Services at 1-833-764-7700 (TTY 1-833-889-6446), 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or visit AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio’s website.
Bringing in-home healthcare to AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio members

We are excited to announce another layer to your in-home healthcare benefit with healthcare on the go. We partner with Total Care Connect (TCC) to bring healthcare directly to our members at no cost to you. Bridging the gap between health and care is important to improving outcomes. 

 

Our care coordination team works closely with TCC to assist you in meeting medical, behavioral health, and social needs (like adult visits, well child visits, certain cancer screenings, transportation, housing, and food access). 

 

You can receive personalized care in the comfort of your own home or on board our state-of-the-art Mobile Wellness and Opportunity Center. To learn more about in-home and mobile services, call 1-614-380-2202, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Taking care of You: Cervical Cancer screening made easy

HPV is a common infection that is spread through sexual contact. There are different types of HPV, and some types can cause cervical cancer. Getting tested for HPV can help you stay healthy and know your risk.

 

The BD Onclarity™ HPV test is the first test approved by the FDA that lets you collect your own sample at your doctor’s office. This test can find 6 high-risk types of HPV. The self-test uses a long cotton swab and takes less than a minute. You can do it in a private space at your doctor’s office. The test is just as accurate as samples taken by a doctor during a regular exam.

 

The Heath Resources and Services Administration recommends HPV Testing every 5 years for women ages 30-65.  If you want to learn more, ask your doctor about using the BD Onclarity™ HPV test with self-collection at your next visit. If you would like to learn more visit the BD Onclarity website.

Connecting wellness and opportunities in your communities
  • Together with these valued partners, we served over 4,000 Ohioans in 2025, providing about 1,800 different services and resources!
  • In 2026, we will be expanding monthly event scheduling availability, and we will continue working with community organizations across Ohio to bring care closer to you through our brand new, state-of-the-art Mobile Wellness and Opportunity Center.
Check out the counties we have served!

Renew your benefits!

Each year, you must renew your Medicaid eligibility. This is called redetermination. You must do this through your local County Department of Job and Family Services (CDJFS) office or you risk losing your Medicaid coverage. You are a valued member; don’t let time run out!  If you do not know your redetermination date, please call AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio Member Services at 1-833-764-7700 (TTY 1-833-889-6446), 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

 

Update your member Information 

AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio wants to make sure we meet you on your healthcare journey. To make sure you get the services and support you deserve, please update your contact information by calling AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio Member Services at 1-833-764-7700 (TTY 1-833-889-6446), 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Make sure AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio has your current: 

  • Mailing address 
  • Phone number 
  • Email 
  • Other contact info 
Maternal mental health matters

Pregnancy and the months after your delivery can bring feelings of joy — but also sadness and worry. This is sometimes called the “baby blues.” Although these feelings are common, some parents feel more than just the baby blues. If you are experiencing these and other emotions, you are not alone! Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your body.

 

What is maternal mental health? 

Maternal mental health is how you feel, think, and cope during pregnancy and up to one year after birth. These feelings can last weeks or months and may need care and support. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shares that about 1 in 8 women with a recent live birth reported symptoms of postpartum depression. 

 

Why it matters?

When you are struggling, daily life can feel very hard. Postpartum depression can affect sleep, bonding with the baby, feeding, and family life. 

 

Signs to watch for:

  • Feeling very sad or hopeless 
  • Feeling worried or scared most of the time 
  • Crying often 
  • Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much 
  • Feeling distant from your baby 
  • Losing interest in things you once

If you would like more information, you can call our Bright Start maternity care coordination program toll-free at 1-833-606-2727 (TTY 1-833-889-6446), 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, or you can call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262).

 

Source: 

“Symptoms of Depression Among Women,” CDC, May 15, 2024.

Love your heart: Simple steps for better health

Eating healthy foods and staying active are two of the best ways to protect your heart. Choosing foods lower in salt (sodium) can help keep your blood pressure in a healthy range. High blood pressure is a major cause of heart disease and stroke. Most of us eat much more salt than our bodies need, especially from packaged or processed foods. Cutting back on salt, even a little at a time, can make a big difference for your heart. 

 

Small changes can lead to BIG results. Try to limit foods like deli meats, pizza, soups, and salty snacks — they often contain added salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Instead, build your meals with whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Choose healthy fats from plant foods and try to use herbs and spices instead of salt to add flavor. Cooking more meals at home can also help you control how much salt and fat you eat. Aim for balanced meals with colorful fruits and veggies, whole grains for more fiber, and fewer processed foods to support a strong, healthy heart. 

 

Sources:

“Sodium in Your Diet,” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, March 5, 2024.

“How to Reduce Sodium in Your Diet,” American Heart Association, January 5, 2024.

Understanding high blood pressure: The “silent” health risk

Did you know that high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, often has no symptoms at all? That’s why it’s called “the silent killer.” Nearly half of adults have high blood pressure, and many don’t even know it because they do not feel sick. Even if you feel fine, your blood pressure could still be too high. Getting it checked regularly is a simple way to protect your heart and stay healthy.

 

What is blood pressure?

Blood pressure shows how hard your blood pushes through your blood vessels. It is shown as two numbers:

  • Top number (systolic): pressure when your heart beats
  • Bottom number (diastolic): pressure when your heart rests

 

When either number is too high, your blood pressure may be unhealthy.

 

Understanding your blood pressure numbers

 

Blood pressure stage

Top number (systolic)

Bottom number (diastolic)

Normal / Healthy

Less than 120

and

Less than 80

Borderline / Elevated

120-129

and

Less than 80

Stage 1 High Blood Pressure

130-139

or

80 – 89

Stage 2 High Blood Pressure

140 or higher

or

90 or higher

 

Why does high blood pressure matter?

If untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems, including:

  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
  • Kidney disease
  • Eye problems

What can you do?

High blood pressure can be prevented and controlled. Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference.

 

Simple steps to protect your health:

  • Eat more fruit and vegetables.
  • Be more physically active.
  • Use less salt.
  • Keep a healthy weight.
  • Take medications exactly as your provider says.
  • Check your blood pressure at home.
  • Get regular checkups with your doctor.

 

As part of your benefits, you may qualify for a free home blood pressure cuff. This makes it easier to monitor your numbers and share them with your provider.

Take action for your health!

 

📞 Need help scheduling a visit or learning more about your benefits?
Call Member Services at 1-833-764-7700 (TTY 1-833-889-6446), 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We can help you:

  • Find a provider near you.
  • Schedule a visit with a provider.
  • Get a free blood pressure cuff.
  • Get your blood pressure checked.

Your heart health matters — take action today.

 

Sources:

“High Blood Pressure Facts,” CDC, January 28, 2025.

“High Blood Pressure,” American Heart Association, accessed March 10, 2026.

“Hypertension,” World Health Organization, September 25, 2025.
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MDLIVE virtual behavioral healthcare 

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio members have access to MDLIVE virtual behavioral healthcare, making it easier to get support when and where you need it. 

 

What is MDLIVE virtual behavioral healthcare? 

MDLIVE provides virtual behavioral health services for eligible members aged 10 years and older. Members can connect with licensed therapists and board-certified psychiatrists by phone or video using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Appointments are available at convenient times, and many members can access care sooner than traditional in-person visits. 

 

Services may include talk therapy, behavioral health evaluations, and medication management when clinically appropriate. 

 

What can MDLIVE help with? 

MDLIVE supports members with common behavioral health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress management, grief and loss, panic disorders, phobias, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), life changes, LGBTQIA+ support, parenting support, and more. 

 

Medication support 

MDLIVE psychiatrists may prescribe or renew certain medications after an initial assessment when medically appropriate. Not all medications or conditions can be treated through virtual care. 

 

When is MDLIVE not appropriate? 

MDLIVE does not provide emergency or crisis care. Virtual behavioral health services may not be appropriate for members experiencing thoughts of harming themselves or others, with active psychosis such as hallucinations or delusions, severe substance use that limits safe participation, or conditions requiring in-person exams, lab work, or close monitoring. Members with urgent or emergency needs should be seen in person for emergency care. Those experiencing a mental health crisis and their loved ones can reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline through a call or text to 988 or by chatting online at 988lifeline.org.

 

There are a few ways to access MDLIVE services:   

  • Download the MDLIVE mobile app, available for iPhone and Android smartphones at no cost. Search for ‘MDLIVE’ in the App Store or Google Play.   
  • Visit www.mdlive.com/acoh
  • Call toll free 1-888-743-6582 (TTY 1-800-770-5531).  
  • Text ACOH to 635483.  

 

MDLIVE does not replace your choice to talk with your doctor, nurse, or another healthcare provider. Treatment works and support helps. 
Special healthcare programs for you

AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio has special healthcare programs to help you stay healthy at no cost to you. These are interactive, meaning you work with a Care Manager directly to help you get the services and information you need to improve your health. No referral needed. We offer:  

  • Care coordination 
  • Complex care management for multiple chronic conditions 
  • Diabetes management
  • Pregnancy support
  • Other special programs (dental, Food as Medicine, pain management, and vision) 
  • Sickle cell disease program

 

Your primary care provider (PCP), specialist, or other healthcare provider may also talk to you about becoming a part of the program. To join, you or your doctor can call Member Services at 1-833-764-7700 (TTY 1-833-889-6446), 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or you can sign in to the member portal and go to Enroll in a Special Program. 
Rights and responsibilities for members

As an AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio member, you have certain rights and responsibilities.

You have the right to:

  • Make recommendations about the rights and responsibilities of AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio members. 
  • Receive all services that AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio must provide.
  • Receive all information about AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio’s services, practitioners, and providers.
  • Be treated with respect and with regard for your dignity and privacy.
  • Know that your medical record information will be kept private.
  • Be given information about your health. This information may also be available to someone who you have legally approved to have the information; or who you have said should be reached in an emergency when it is not in the best interest of your health to give it to you.
  • Discuss medically necessary treatment options for your condition(s), no matter the cost or benefit coverage.
  • Participate with providers in making decisions relating to your healthcare.
  • Be able to take part in decisions about your healthcare as long as the decisions are in your best interest. 

 

As a member you have a responsibility to: 

  • Give your providers all the information they need to provide care.
  • Follow your doctor's care instructions and treat your healthcare providers with kindness and respect.
  • Learn as much as you can about your health so you can play an active role in your care.

 

Contact Member Services at 1-833-764-7700 (TTY 1-833-889-6446), 24 hours a day, seven days a week to request a printed version of your rights and responsibilities. A printed version can be mailed within five business days at no cost to you. For a full list of your rights and responsibilities, please visit our Rights and Responsibilities webpage. 

CAHPS Reminder!

Your experience matters. AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio uses the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) survey each year to evaluate services important to you. This survey was mailed out earlier this year to a random sample of members which helps us know about the care you receive. We’re committed to listening, learning, and continuously improving how we serve our members. Share your experience and help us continue building better moments for our members.

This is only a summary of important information. Information on benefits, how to get care, providers (primary care/specialists/hospitals/behavioral health), covered and non-covered services, complaints, grievances, fair hearings, prescriptions/pharmacies, out-of-area care, and more is available on our website. Visit AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio’s website for a copy of the most current Member Handbook and a link to the online provider directory.
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5525 Parkcenter Circle, Suite 100, Dublin, OH, 43017

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