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ISSUE 3 / FALL 2026
Prenatal Care Helps Support a Healthy Pregnancy and Baby
Getting prenatal care during the first 3 months of pregnancy can help keep you and your baby healthy. Mothers who do not receive prenatal care are 3 times more likely to have babies with low birth weight and 5 times more likely to have babies die than mothers who do receive care.
Regular prenatal visits help doctors find health problems early, when they are easier to treat. Early treatment can cure many problems and prevent others. Doctors can also talk with pregnant women about ways to give their unborn babies a healthy start.
MPC and the Maryland Department of Health offer several programs and services to support healthy pregnancies and babies. These may include:
Home Visiting Services
Home visits offer support and teach parenting skills before and after birth. The type of visit and trained professional who comes to your home depends on your family’s needs.
Doula Support
You can get support from a Doula, a trained professional who provides prenatal visits, often in your home. A Doula will:
- talk with you about birth procedures and breastfeeding
- support you during labor and delivery
- provide postpartum visits
MOM Case Management
This program offers case management for pregnant people who have opioid use disorder or a history of opioid use. Case management connects you with health, treatment, and recovery care services.
Dental Coverage: Maryland Healthy Smiles
Dental care is important during pregnancy. Poor oral health can lead to health problems for you and your baby. Seeing a dentist while pregnant is safe and recommended. Dental coverage is available through Maryland Healthy Smiles by calling 855-934-9812.
New Rules for Medicaid Coming Soon
A new federal law, H.R. 1, adds new requirements for up to 320,000 Maryland Medicaid members, many of whom may be exempt from these requirements. Maryland Physicians Care is working closely with the Maryland Department of Health and Maryland Health Connection to help our members navigate these new changes and stay covered.
What is changing?
Starting Jan. 1, 2027, the federal government is requiring new rules for some adults to keep Medicaid coverage. These include:
- Show you are working or taking part in other activities (also called work requirements)
- Renew your Medicaid coverage twice a year
MDH and the MCOs will be contacting members that may be impacted in the Fall 2026 in advance of changes that may occur during each recipient’s upcoming Medicaid renewal throughout 2027.
What is changing for immigrants?
Starting Oct. 1, 2026, a few non-citizen immigrants will no longer qualify for Medicaid coverage. This new law applies to adults, but not to children or pregnant people. Visit the Maryland Department of Health’s Immigration Status Requirements page for more information.
Do these changes apply to you?
To find out more information about these changes go to the Medicaid Check-In page on the Maryland Health Connection website. To see if these changes may apply to you Log in to your account with the Maryland Health Connection.
Know Where to Go for Care—When You Need It.
If you cannot see your doctor, the hospital emergency department may seem like your only option. For a true medical emergency, the hospital is the right place to go; for less serious needs, other options are available, such as the MyVirtualMPC app or an urgent care center. Choosing the right care setting at the right time matters.
Use these tips to help decide where to seek care:
Emergent Care
If you need immediate medical attention to prevent serious harm, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department. You may go to any emergency department without pre-authorization.
Urgent Care
If you have an illness or injury that could become an emergency within 48 hours without treatment, visit an in-network urgent care center. Pre-authorization is not required, but the center must participate with Maryland Physicians Care to avoid possible billing.
MyVirtualMPC
For non-emergency care when you cannot see your PCP, use the free MyVirtualMPC mobile app for a quick 24/7 video visit with a local doctor. Click the button below for details and registration, or download the app from your smartphone’s app store.
Breast Cancer Screening
Breast cancer screening helps find cancer early, before there are any signs or symptoms. While screenings cannot prevent breast cancer, they can help find it sooner. Finding cancer early can make treatment easier and more effective.
Talk with your doctor about the benefits of early screening and which type is right for you. Most women start getting mammograms at age 40, but when to start and how often to get screened depends on your personal risk factors.
What is a mammogram?
- A mammogram is an x-ray image of the breast.
- It helps doctors look for cancer and other changes in breast tissue.
- It can be used to check for breast cancer even when there are no signs or symptoms.
- Mammograms can help find breast cancer early, when treatment may be easier and more successful.
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States. About 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. The good news is that many cases are found early, before the cancer has spread. Early detection can lead to better treatment and health outcomes. For more details on breast cancer screenings, talk to your doctor or visit Women's Health on the MPC website.
Did you know?
Although breast cancer is more common in women, men can also develop breast cancer. The risk increases with age. If you have questions about your risk, talk with your doctor.
MPC Helps Members Access Timely Care
MPC helps members get timely care through a broad network of primary care doctors, specialists, labs, radiology centers, urgent care centers, hospitals, and other medical services. Members can also connect with local doctors 24/7 by phone or computer using the MyVirtualMPC app.
Doctors must offer appointments within these time frames.
If you cannot get the care you need within these timeframes, call Customer Service at 1-800-953-8854. MPC has Customer Service Representatives, Care Managers, Special Needs Coordinators, and Outreach Staff available to help.
Maryland Medicaid requires you to renew your coverage.
Keep your records up to date
If you have moved or have a new phone number, log into your account at MarylandHealthConnection.gov or call 855-642-8572 to update your contact information so that you will receive your notice when it is time for you to renew.
Do not let your Medicaid Benefits expire. Keep your Maryland Physicians Care coverage.
Here's what to do:
- Watch for your Renewal Notice. A renewal notice will be sent to you by Maryland Health Connection. You will receive your notice by mail or online through your Maryland Health Connection account. This notice will tell you to complete your renewal.
- When you receive your notice from Maryland Health Connection, log into your account at MarylandHealthConnection.gov/Checkin or call 855-642-8572.
- Renew your coverage as soon as you receive your notice.
If you do not renew, you will lose your health benefits.
- Don’t wait.
- Don’t let your MPC Medicaid coverage expire.
- Complete your renewal when you receive it!
Get help online, in person, or by phone.
- Call Maryland Health Connection at 855-642-8572. Help is available in more than 200 languages. Deaf and hard of hearing can contact the Relay Service at 855-642-8573.
- Call or visit your local Department of Social Services.
- Call or visit your local Health Department.
- Find help: marylandhealthconnection.gov
Language Should Never Be a Barrier to Care
Understanding your health is important. When you understand your health and your benefits, you can make better decisions and get the care you need.
Maryland Physicians Care (MPC) offers free language services to help you communicate and understand important health information. If needed, you can ask for:
- An interpreter when you call MPC or during a MyVirtualMPC visit
- Important health plan information translated into your language
- Written materials in other languages, large print, or other accessible formats
Language services can help you:
- Better understand your health benefits
- Ask questions with confidence
- Understand your medicines and care instructions
- Find the right healthcare services
- Avoid misunderstandings that could affect your health
If you need an interpreter for an appointment with your healthcare provider, ask your provider's office before your visit. Your provider's office should provide a qualified interpreter at no cost to you.
If your provider is unable to provide an interpreter, they can call Maryland Physicians Care’s Member Services department to access Maryland Physicians Care's interpreter services free of charge.
To request language services from MPC, call Member Services at 1-800-953-8854 or call the number on your MPC member ID card.
At MPC, we believe everyone deserves clear communication and quality care, no matter what language you speak.
Ready, Set, Cook!
Pumpkin Cheesecake Smoothie
The vanilla yogurt in this recipe makes the smoothie taste just like pumpkin cheesecake. You'll think it should be in a pie shell!
Nutrition Facts
For complete nutritional information, an ingredients list and more, view the full recipe.
Serving size 1 1/2 cups | Servings: 2
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
Help Prevent Fraud And Abuse
Maryland Physicians Care (MPC) needs your help preventing fraud and abuse. Fraud and abuse are against the law, and we ask you to report anything suspicious. You may report concerns to MPC without fear of retaliation. MPC reports all suspected fraud and/or abuse to the Maryland Department of Health, Office of Inspector General, for further investigation, which may result in criminal penalties.
Examples of fraud and abuse include:
- Someone using an ID card that does not belong to them
- Doctors billing for services or supplies you did not receive
- Doctors giving too many tests or services, or tests and services that are not needed
- Selling prescription medications or changing a written prescription
- Falsely reporting household income
- Receiving Maryland Medicaid while not living in Maryland
You do not have to give your name or contact information when reporting fraud and abuse. If you do, we will keep it private. Please provide as much information as possible so we can complete a thorough and accurate investigation.
You can report fraud and abuse in these ways:
CALL
the Compliance Hotline at 1-866-781-6403 and leave a detailed message.
GO ONLINE
at https://www.marylandphysicianscare.com/fraud-abuse/ and complete the Fraud and Abuse Form.
WRITE TO
MPC’s Compliance Officer
1201 Winterson Road, 4th Floor, Linthicum Heights, MD 21090.
MyVirtualMPC – A Doctor is Just a Message Away
Chatting with a doctor is FREE with MyVirtualMPC.
Don’t waste time searching the internet for answers to your medical questions. Your FREE access to MyVirtualMPC gives you access to board-certified doctors who can help you address your medical questions 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
With MyVirtualMPC, there are no appointments or wait times – simply connect with a doctor in seconds.
Chat with a doctor about any of the following if you or your child:
- are sick, and you are not sure if you need to go to the emergency room
- feel sick, but it’s not an emergency
- have a minor injury
- have general medical questions
- want to refill a prescription (controlled substances, non-therapeutic, and certain other drugs may not be available)
- are not sure where to go to get care
Take advantage of your FREE access to doctors as a valued Maryland Physicians Care member:
Or register at https://app.myvirtualmpc.com/register.
Lead Screenings
Lead is a metal that can be harmful to everyone, especially children.
Often, children exposed to lead do not show any signs or symptoms. Lead can be found in old paint, dust, soil, and sometimes in water. You may not know it is there because you cannot always see, smell, or taste it. Lead can get into the body without you knowing and cause health problems.
Lead exposure can be prevented.
A child can be exposed to lead by touching, swallowing, or breathing in lead-contaminated dust or materials. Even small amounts can cause serious health problems and children may not show symptoms. If you think your child has been exposed to lead, talk with their doctor. They may recommend a lead screening, which is a blood test that measures the amount of lead in the body.
How do lead screenings help? They:
- find lead in the child’s blood before it causes serious problems.
- help protect healthy brain development and learning.
- allow parents and families to take action to remove lead from their environment.
- support early intervention and treatment, if needed.
When lead exposure is found early, parents and doctors can work together to keep children safe and healthy.
For more information on lead testing and prevention, see Children's Health. You may schedule an appointment or request a lead screening by calling Member Services at 1-800-953-8854.
Warm Up to Lower Energy Costs
Is that a chill in the air? Fall means pumpkin spice, changing leaves, and turning on the heat. Not ready for big heating bills? Small changes around the home can add up to big savings.
Here are some things you can do:
Lower the temperature.
Set your thermostat to 68°F.
Sleep cooler.
Drop the temperature 5-7 degrees when you go to bed.
Keep vents clear.
Make sure furniture and drapes do not block heating vents.
Replace HVAC filters.
Change dirty filters monthly during heating season.
Lower water heater temperature.
Turn your water heater down to 120°.
Here are some good ways to lower your electric bill:
- Wash clothes in cold water. Heating water uses a lot of energy.
- Clean the lint trap in your clothes dryer after each use.
- Run full loads of laundry and dishes.
- Unplug electronics or plug them into a smart power strip.
- Replace old light bulbs with LED bulbs.
More Help with Energy Costs
Do you receive SSI, TANF, SNAP, TCA or MEAP? If so, you may qualify for the Weatherization Assistance Program. The program is offered by the Department of Housing and Community Development. It provides free home improvements that reduce utility costs.
Some of these include:
- Adding insulation
- Sealing air leaks
- Repairing or replacing heating systems
- Addressing health and safety issues
To apply for assistance, contact your Local Weatherization Agency (LWA).
Utilization Management Overview
Utilization Management (UM) helps members get the right care for their needs. It reviews care before, during, and after services are provided. This includes home care, prescription drugs, doctor visits, and hospital visits.
Sometimes, Prior Authorization (PA) is needed before a member can receive services or medication. This means a doctor must request approval. If approval is not received, they cannot bill you. Maryland Physicians Care does not reward healthcare providers or others when issuing a denial of coverage or service.
UM Communication After Business Hours:
- Calls or messages received after business hours are returned the next business day.
- Calls or messages received after midnight, Monday through Friday, are returned the same day.
- Staff can receive inbound communication regarding UM concerns.
- Provider may fax request to the appropriate number.
- Providers may leave a voice message by following the Authorization/Concurrent Review prompts at 1-800-953-8854.
If you would like more information on Utilization Management, call 1-800-953-8854 and follow the prompts. Utilization Management staff are available at least 8 hours daily during business hours for collect or toll-free calls.
Language assistance is available at no cost. Maryland Physicians Care TDD/TTY (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf/Teletypewriter) services are available for members who need them at 1-800-735-2258.
Join Belong, the Membership Rewards Program from Maryland Physicians Care, for:
- A chance to win prizes, such as Fitbits, Blenders, Air Fryers, and Plush Blankets
- Valuable Coupons for Grocery Stores
- Free Gifts at MPC Well on Wheels Community Events
- Healthy Recipes
Importance of Bone Health
Many people do not think about their bones until they get hurt. However, bones play an important role in keeping our bodies healthy. They protect our organs, support our muscles, and store important minerals like calcium. Keeping our bones healthy helps us stay strong and active.
Healthy bones are important for all ages. Strong bones are less likely to break. They help us to do everyday activities, such as carrying groceries, climbing stairs, and playing sports or outdoor activities. Building strong bones during childhood and teen years help create a foundation for good health later in life.
Our bones are always changing. The body removes old bone and replaces it with new bone. During childhood and young adulthood, bones grow quickly and become stronger. By the age of 30, most people have reached their peak bone strength. After that, the body starts to lose bone faster than it can replace it.
There are a couple ways to keep your bones healthy:
- Eat foods that are rich in calcium.
- Make sure you are getting enough vitamin D through food and spending a short amount of time out in the sun or even sitting indoors next to a window where sunlight comes in and touches your skin.
- Stay physically active.
- Avoid smoking and limit your alcohol use.
Poor bone health can lead to osteoporosis, a disease that makes bones weak and easier to break. People with osteoporosis have a higher risk of breaking a bone during a fall or injury. If you think you are at risk, talk to your doctor to see if a bone density screening is needed.
Bone health is important during all stages of life. Taking steps now to build and maintain strong bones can help you stay active and healthy in the future.
Knowing Your Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy substance that travels through your blood and helps your body function and be healthy. Yet, if you have too much cholesterol in your body it can build up inside your blood vessels. Over time, the buildup makes it harder for your blood to flow through your body. This increases the risk of heart disease or stroke.
There are two main types of cholesterol:
- LDL, often called bad cholesterol, can cause buildup in the blood vessels and can cause heart disease or a stroke.
- HDL, often called good cholesterol, helps remove extra cholesterol from your blood and may lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Keeping your cholesterol at a healthy level helps your heart. Small healthy habits can help make a big improvement to your health over time.
Try these healthy habits:
- Fill your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and lean protein.
- Add 30 minutes of movement to your day. Take a walk around your neighborhood.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Quit smoking. Just three months of being smoke-free improves your blood flow and lung function.
- If you drink alcohol, drink in moderation.
Did you know that high cholesterol is called a silent condition?
Most people do not have any symptoms. You can feel healthy and still have high cholesterol. This is why it is important to know your cholesterol numbers and risks. Regular visits with your doctor and screenings can help you protect your overall health. For more information, visit the MPC Cholesterol webpage.
Maryland Physicians Care offers medical coverage and health benefits that are close to home.
This coverage includes access to primary and urgent care visits, pregnancy and new mother benefits, specialists care, pharmacy coverage, primary mental health services, vision and dental care* (including adults), and more. MPC’s participation in the HealthChoice program is available to Maryland Children’s Health Program or MCHP-qualified recipients. Members can work within MPC’s network of doctors to find the care that is right for them.
*Dental care is provided by Maryland Healthy Smiles Dental Program (MHSDP).
You Can Make a Difference in the Services We Provide
Apply for a position on our Consumer Advisory Board (CAB) if you are an MPC Member, can attend every two months (bi-monthly) meetings, and are at least age 21.
We are looking for young moms, a member with a chronic illness, and members with multiple health concerns. Meetings are conducted virtually.
Visit Our Website
You will find helpful information on:
- Quality Improvement Program
- Care Management Program
- Population Health Programs
- Health & Wellness
- Clinical Practice Guidelines
- Utilization Management, including decision-making criteria, affirmative statement, and staff availability
- Pharmacy and Prescription Drug Management
- Benefits and Coverage
- Member Rights and Responsibilities
- Protected Health Information Use and Disclosure
- Member Handbook
- Provider Directory
If you do not have internet service, you can reach us by phone (numbers listed in “Who to Call” – below) for more information.
WHO TO CALL
MEMBER SERVICES
Benefits, ID cards, appeals, PCP changes, access interpreter services, etc.
800-953-8854
MARYLAND HEALTHY SMILES DENTAL PROGRAM
855-934-9812
PUBLIC MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
800-888-1965
SUPERIOR VISION
800-428-8789
UTILIZATION MANAGEMENT
800-953-8854
CARE MANAGEMENT
800-953-8854
HEALTH EDUCATION REQUESTS
800-953-8854
Published on: September 18, 2026