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Member Spotlight: Value-Added Services

09/03/2026

As a Parkland Community Health Plan member, you get more than just your regular plan benefits. You also have access to value-added services that can help your family stay healthy – at no extra cost. In addition, members can earn rewards for completing activities like checkups, health screenings, and vaccines (shots). Rewards can include gift cards and other healthy items from PCHP’s rewards catalog . For more details about value-added services and rewards, please visit our website . All PCHP plans inclu...
What to Know About Asthma Controller Medications

08/27/2026

Asthma is a long-term illness that affects the lungs and makes it hard to breathe. If you or your child have asthma, you may cough, wheeze, feel tightness in your chest, or get short of breath. There is no cure for asthma, but it can be controlled with the right treatment, including controller medicines. Controller medicines work slowly over time to keep the airways calm. These medicines lower swelling in the airways, stop asthma attacks, and help you feel better. Controller medicines are also known as ...
Suicide in Children and Teens: What Are the Warning Signs?

08/20/2026

Growing up can be tough. The challenges of school, friends, and family can set the stage for depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. When mental health struggles are extreme, they can lead to thoughts of suicide. In fact, suicide is the second leading cause of death for children, teens, and young adults ages 15 to 24. The good news is depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts can be treated. Your child, teen, or young adult can feel hopeful and happy again. How can you help? The first step...
Understanding Your Diabetes Medications

08/12/2026

If you have diabetes, following your treatment plan is a key part of staying healthy. Your provider may prescribe medicine to help you control your condition. If they do, it’s important to take every dose as scheduled. Frequently missing doses can lead to higher blood glucose (blood sugar) and other health problems. If your doctor prescribes a new medication, be sure to: Ask what it does, and how and when you should take it. (For example, is morning or evening better? Should you take it wit...
Getting Ready for Back-to-School? Here Are Five Things to Know

08/03/2026

It’s time to head back to school! There’s often a lot to take care of before classes start, and that can feel overwhelming. These five tips should help you feel more prepared – and less stressed – for the new school year. Establish a Regular Schedule Before School Starts Summer is a great time for your children to rest and relax – but the lack of a schedule, including later bedtimes and less-regular meals, can make the transition back to school more difficult. Before the new school year starts, encourag...
How to Stretch Your Grocery Budget at the Dollar Store

07/28/2026

You’ve probably noticed that food prices have been going up in recent months. Those higher costs can put a strain on your household budget, especially if you also need to pay for things like rent, utilities, and childcare. Shopping at the dollar store can be a convenient way to get what you need while keeping costs low. The tips below can help you make the most of your shopping trip and create healthy, kid-friendly meals your family will love. Plan your meals in advance. Create a menu for the week and s...
Parkland Community Health Plan Back-to-School Tour

07/28/2026

Get ready for a successful school year with Parkland Community Health Plan. Our Back-to-School Tour connects families with no-cost health services, educational resources, and community events across Dallas County. From sports physicals and wellness screenings to backpack giveaways and family resource fairs, we're here to help students start the school year healthy, prepared, and ready to learn. Explore upcoming events below and register where required: August 2- Back to School Event | 10am-3pm Bishop Ba...
Quick Tips for Using Your Pharmacy Benefits

07/21/2026

Prescription medications can play an important role in helping you stay healthy. If you need medication for a short- or long-term health condition, you probably make regular trips to the pharmacy. If your doctor prescribes a new medication, it’s important to get it filled promptly and take it as instructed. To make your next pharmacy visit quick and easy, be sure to keep these tips in mind: Check your pharmacy prior authorizations. Some prescriptions require approval from Parkland Community Health Plan ...
Redeem Your Parkland Rewards

07/14/2026

Redeem Your Parkland Rewards by August 31, 2026 If you have a Parkland Rewards account , be sure to redeem your 2025-2026 points before August 31, 2026. Items in the rewards catalog include: gift cards games and toys infant care supplies children's clothing sports equipment fitness tools art sets health and beauty products kitchen and nutrition items and more Remember: You have to “use them or lose them.” Be sure to redeem your rewards by the August 31 deadli...
Is It Time to Renew Your Benefits? Here’s What You Need to Know.

07/08/2026

Are you a current Medicaid or CHIP member? If so, you must renew your coverage every 12 months to keep your benefits. Renewing takes less time than submitting a new application – but it’s still important to be prepared. Take action now – and save time later! Make sure that Texas Health & Human Services (HHSC) has your current mailing address, phone number, and email address so you can get important updates about your coverage. The easiest way to do this is by setting up an account with Your Texas Be...
Keep Your Family’s Food Safe in the Heat

06/24/2026

The kids are ready, snacks are packed, and you’re headed out for some summer fun. Summer is a great time for outdoor activities, but the higher temperatures can cause food to go bad more quickly than you might think. A few easy habits can keep your family safe and feeling good all summer long. What Happens When It Gets Hot In the summer, warm air does something you can't see. It helps bacteria grow fast in food that's been left out. Food starts to enter what food safety experts call the "danger z...
Get No-Cost Family Planning Services—and More—from Healthy Texas Women

06/16/2026

Are you a woman age 15 or older who needs birth control, family planning, postpartum, or other healthcare services? Healthy Texas Women can help. Managed by Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC), the Healthy Texas Women program offers these benefits to eligible women—at no cost. Who can apply for Healthy Texas Women? You can receive these benefits if you are a woman: Who does not have health insurance. Who is a resident of Texas. Between 18 to 44 years old. Between 15 to 1...
What to Do If Your Child Falls in Water

06/01/2026

Texas summers usually mean time spent in the water — rivers, lakes, swimming pools, or a trip to the beach. But being in the water comes with risks – including drowning. It can happen to anyone. A parent turns away for a second. Your child is right there, and then they're not. Knowing what to do before something happens could save a child's life. Drowning Doesn't Look Like You Think Most people picture drowning as loud and dramatic. In real life, it's the opposite. A child in trouble goes quiet. They ca...
How to Get a Breast Pump - and Other Maternity Products - At No Cost

05/27/2026

Parkland Community Health Plan members: did you know that new and expecting moms can get a free breast pump with a prescription from their provider? For breastfeeding moms, a breast pump can make life a little easier by helping you save time and store milk for when you need it. How can I order a breast pump? PCHP partners with several companies that offer breast pumps and other medical equipment. Once your provider gives you a prescription, you can contact one of these approved suppliers directly. (PCHP...
Member Benefits Spotlight: MTM Health

05/14/2026

Getting regular care is an important way to stay healthy. Parkland Community Health Plan offers several benefits and services that make it easier to access the care you need. Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) NEMT benefits are available to all STAR members. Services include no-cost rides to and from the doctor, dentist, hospital, drugstore, or other Medicaid service providers. If you need a ride, PCHP may be able to help with: Public transportation, like the city bus. Money to buy gas. A taxi ...
Tired All the Time? Here's What Your Body Is Trying to Tell You.

05/05/2026

Have you ever woken up and felt worn out after a full night’s sleep? Do you drag yourself through the afternoon? When you’re juggling a lot—work, kids, and caring for others—sleep often gets pushed aside. But that comes at the cost of your health. Your mood, weight, and heart all need sleep to function well. What Actually Happens While You Sleep? Sleep is not just your body going quiet and still. It’s when your body heals, stores memories, and gives your heart a rest. There are three stages of sleep: de...
Texas Medicaid For Unemployment

04/24/2026

How —and Why—to Apply for Texas Medicaid After Losing Your Job Have you lost your job recently? If so, you may have lost your health insurance as well. While you’re searching for a new job – and a new health plan – one option to consider is Medicaid. What is Medicaid? Medicaid is a program for low-income individuals and families that offers healthcare insurance at no cost. All states offer some type of Medicaid program in partnership with the federal government. In Texas, the Medicaid insurance program ...
Blood Sugar and Exercise: What to Know

04/15/2026

If you have diabetes, exercise is one of the best things you can do to help manage it. Regular activity is great for supporting healthy blood sugar levels, improving heart health, and helping your body use insulin better. Are you planning to start exercising? If so, it’s important to check your blood sugar before – and during – your workout. For people who take insulin, exercise can sometimes cause blood sugar to drop too low. Signs of low blood sugar can include: shakiness weakness dizziness sweating h...
Know Your Family Health History. It Could Change Your Child's Care.

04/06/2026

Knowing your family's health history is a powerful way to protect your child. It helps you stay proactive about their well-being and helps your doctor catch potential issues early. Well-child checkups are an important part of your child's growth. They typically happen about once a year (children under age 3 usually have a checkup every few months). During these visits, your child's doctor will use your family's health history to look for growth problems, learning delays, and other health concerns. So, h...
Controller vs. Rescue Inhalers: What’s the Difference?

03/27/2026

If you or your child has asthma, your doctor may prescribe two types of inhalers . These are called controller inhalers and rescue inhalers . Both help with asthma, but they do different jobs . Knowing when to use each one can help you breathe easier and prevent asthma attacks. A quick way to know the difference Think of it this way: Controller inhaler = prevent problems Rescue inhaler = treat symptoms Both inhalers work best when you use them the right way. What is a controller inhaler? A controller in...
Watch Your Child Grow: Milestones from Ages 1 to 5

03/19/2026

Is your toddler saying their first words? Can they stack blocks or kick a ball? Watching your child learn and grow is exciting—and sometimes confusing. How do you know if they’re on track? At every well-child visit, your child’s doctor checks if they’re reaching key milestones . These are skills most children develop by certain ages, like walking, talking, and playing with others. Here’s what to look for from ages 1 to 5, along with simple ways you can help your child learn, grow, and have fun. On...
Are Your Kids Picky Eaters? Here's What to Do

03/04/2026

Does mealtime feel like a battle? Many parents face the same challenge. Your child refuses anything green. They turn down new foods. They only eat the same three meals. Picky eating is frustrating, but it doesn't have to last forever. Most children go through picky eating phases, and you can help your child try new foods and build healthy habits. Why Are Kids Picky? A study in the journal Pediatrics followed children ages 4 to 9 to understand why picky eating happens. The researchers found that habits k...
Keep Your Child Safe with These Important Vaccines

02/27/2026

In Texas, babies and children are encouraged to get several different vaccines to help protect them from serious disease. These vaccines are safe, effective ways to help your child stay healthy. See below for a list of common vaccines your child may receive.* Ask your child’s primary care provider (PCP) for a record when they get their shots. If you have questions or concerns, be sure to talk to your PCP. COVID-19 vaccine Protects against: COVID-19 , a contagious respiratory illness. Recommended for: Ev...
Take Control of Your Asthma This Winter

02/19/2026

When you have asthma, it can be hard to manage your symptoms during the winter months. Learning to recognize and prevent asthma triggers can help you breathe easier and keep your symptoms under control. What Are Asthma Triggers? Asthma symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, cough, or chest tightness are often caused by something in the air that you breathe. These are called triggers. Triggers are different for every person. Common triggers include: Smoke from cigarettes, wood burning stoves, fi...
Are You Expecting? Add the Dentist to Your To-Do List.

02/13/2026

Are you pregnant or planning to get pregnant? Your dental health is more important than you might think – and it matters for both you and your baby. Many moms-to-be don't know that pregnancy can cause changes to their teeth and gums. The good news is that taking care of your mouth is safe during pregnancy. How Pregnancy Affects Your Teeth and Gums When your body changes during pregnancy, so does your mouth. Your pregnancy hormones (progesterone and estrogen) can increase your risk for dental problems . ...
Get Easier Access Through PCHP's Member Portal

02/01/2026

Parkland Community Health Plan is excited to introduce our new and improved Member Portal . Members now have easier access to details about their coverage, including recent claims, ID cards, forms, member rewards, and more – all in one place, available 24/7. After logging in to the portal, visit your homepage for a quick look at the resources available to you as a member. From the My Health Plan menu, you can view a summary of your current benefits, learn about value-added services, and verify yo...
Dealing with Depression During Your Pregnancy

01/27/2026

Pregnancy is often seen as a happy, exciting time – but many people experience worry and stress in addition to the excitement. It’s completely normal to feel anxious or overwhelmed at times. But when sadness or anxiety starts to affect your daily life, or makes it hard to take care of yourself or others, it may be a sign of prenatal depression. Prenatal depression is common, affecting about 1 in 10 pregnant women. It’s important to recognize the signs and get help early—untreated depression during pregn...
Help for PCHP Members Affected by Severe Weather

01/20/2026

This weekend’s expected winter weather could cause problems across North Texas. If you are a member of Parkland Community Health Plan, there are services available to help you. Important Phone Numbers For medical emergencies, call 9-1-1. For information on evacuations, shelters, and recovery assistance, call 2-1-1. Call Member Services (available Monday - Friday, 8 am to 5 pm) if you need to Get an emergency prescription refill. Replace necessary medical equipment, services, or supplies. Get a new copy ...
Make Your New Year's Resolutions Stick

01/16/2026

The start of a new year is the perfect time to make changes involving health and wellness. For many people, that means making resolutions—but developing new habits can be a challenge. Have you set any resolutions for the new year? If so, keep reading for ways to help make those resolutions stick. Make Your Goal Personal Start with a resolution that is important to you. You may find it easier to stick with a new habit when you believe the goal is meaningful. For example, losing weight is a co...
How to Choose a Medicaid Plan for Your Family

01/06/2026

You applied for Texas Medicaid. Your application was approved. And that’s great news! You are one step closer to better health for yourself and your family. But there are a few more steps you need to take. We’ve listed them here to help you get started. Open your information packet. Check your mailbox. Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC) will send you a packet of information. Inside the packet, you’ll find out: if you are assigned to: STAR (State of Texas Access Reform), a Medicaid program that provi...
How to Stay Healthy After Giving Birth

12/19/2025

After your baby is born, the first days and weeks back home can be exhausting. It’s important to take extra-good care of yourself as you recover from childbirth. Your labor and delivery might be normal. However, you should watch for signs of infection, high blood pressure, and other symptoms. Otherwise, you could end up back in the hospital! Call your doctor right away if you notice any of the symptoms listed below. “Postpartum depression” feelings, such as: Extreme anxiety Lack of interest in things yo...
Top Medicaid Benefits for Children and Pregnant Women

12/17/2025

Is your child ready for eyeglasses? Texas Medicaid covers it. Do you need a pregnancy checkup? Texas Medicaid covers that, too. In fact, Medicaid has a long list of services to help you and your family stay healthy and well. Medicaid benefits include: dental care allergy medicine vaccinations (shots) birth control hearing tests rides to the doctor and more! Top Medicaid Benefits for Children Dental Care You should take your child to the dentist every six months, starting when they are 6 months old. Your...
Why You Should Talk to Your Teen About Chlamydia Stigmas

12/08/2025

It’s common to talk about “the birds and the bees” or puberty with your child. But it’s not as common to talk about sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including STIs like chlamydia. But according to Planned Parenthood of the Southwest, 15- to 24-year-olds account for 75% of chlamydia and gonorrhea diagnoses. This statistic makes it critical to talk about chlamydia with your child or teen – even if you don’t think they’re sexually active. Where Do Stigmas Come From? Negative stere...
Free Holiday Meals and Other Food Resources for 2025

10/27/2025

Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 27. If your budget is tight this year, plan now to enjoy one of the free holiday meals offered in communities throughout north Texas. We’ve included just a few of these events below. Be sure to use Google and social media to search for more community meals near you. Dallas and Fort Worth Feast of Sharing Bring the whole family to celebrate Thanksgiving at the Central Market/H-E-B Feast of Sharing in Dallas and Fort Worth. This free community event includes a holi...
You’ve applied for Medicaid or CHIP. Should you apply for the Marketplace, too?

10/17/2025

When you apply for Medicaid or CHIP, you might wait up to 45 days before learning if your application is approved. If you do not get approved, it’s good to have a backup plan. Getting coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace is one way to plan ahead. What is the Marketplace? The Marketplace is a website where you can shop and sign up for health insurance. It was created as part of the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Plans cover doctor visits, prescription drugs, hospital stay...
How ADHD Can Look Different in Boys and Girls

10/07/2025

Does your child have ADHD? They’re not alone. According to the CDC, 7 million US children between 3 and 17 years old have been diagnosed with ADHD. Boys are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls. This is likely due to the way the condition develops in boys vs. girls. ADHD can be harder to identify in girls; they tend to have fewer behavioral problems, and symptoms are less noticeable. While boys’ behavior may seem more disruptive, girls with ADHD may be seen as daydreaming or “off in the...
Opioids and Opioid Use Disorder: What You Need to Know

10/06/2025

Have you heard of opioids, but aren’t sure what they are or why people use them? Keep reading for a list of frequently asked questions about opioids and their potential risks. What are opioids? Opioids, also known as narcotics, are strong medicines that help treat moderate to severe pain. They are often used after surgery or for injuries, chronic headaches, or backaches. They include both prescription medications and illegal drugs (such as heroin). Common prescription medications containing op...
Member Access to Gene Therapy for Sickle Cell Disease

09/19/2025

Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. When someone has sickle cell disease, their red blood cells become hard and sticky. When they travel through small blood vessels, sickle cells get stuck and clog the blood flow. This can cause pain and other health problems such as infection and stroke. PCHP’s STAR (Medicaid) members with sickle cell disease now have access to a treatment called gene therapy, which can help improve their quality of life. The process usually ...
Texas Medicaid Renewal FAQs

09/15/2025

All Medicaid members must submit a renewal application every 12 months to continue receiving benefits. If you are receiving Texas Medicaid benefits, please respond promptly to requests from Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC) to avoid a lapse in your coverage. ( Click here to learn how to update your contact information with Texas HHSC.) See below for some common questions and answers about Medicaid renewal. How do I know if I need to renew my Medicaid coverage? Be on the lookout...
How Psychotherapy Can Help Your Child or Teen

09/05/2025

Does your child or teen have a tough time controlling their emotions, making friends, or coping with life situations? If so, they’re not alone! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 5 children have a mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder and might benefit from psychotherapy. This type of therapy – which can be used instead of or in addition to medication – may be right for your child. What is psychotherapy? Psychotherapy can help children and teens understand ...