Choosing the right health insurance provider is one of the most important decisions for individuals and families seeking affordable healthcare. Two major names you may come across—especially in New York and the Northeast—are UnitedHealthcare (UHC) and Fidelis Care.
While UnitedHealthcare is a nationwide leader with a wide variety of health insurance options, Fidelis Care is a regional provider with a strong presence in New York State, known for serving low- to moderate-income individuals through Medicaid, ACA Marketplace, and Medicare Advantage plans.
In this 2025 comparison of UnitedHealthcare vs Fidelis Care, we break down both companies by coverage types, affordability, provider networks, plan benefits, and customer experience to help you make an informed choice.
Company Overview
UnitedHealthcare (UHC)
UnitedHealthcare, part of UnitedHealth Group, is the largest health insurance provider in the United States, covering more than 50 million members. UHC offers Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, ACA plans, employer-sponsored plans, and dental/vision coverage.
Highlights:
- Nationwide presence in all 50 states
- Offers HMO, PPO, EPO plans for individuals, families, and seniors
- Strong Medicare Advantage network and partnerships (including AARP)
- Known for large provider networks and virtual care offerings
Fidelis Care (Centene)
Fidelis Care is a New York-based insurer owned by Centene Corporation. It focuses on Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, Child Health Plus, Essential Plans, and Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace coverage — serving over 2.5 million members statewide.
Highlights:
- Operates exclusively in New York State
- Offers ACA plans, Medicaid Managed Care, and Dual-Eligible SNPs
- Known for serving low-income individuals and families
- Strong ties with local hospitals and health centers
Plan Availability & Types
| Feature | UnitedHealthcare | Fidelis Care |
| National Coverage | Yes (all 50 states + D.C.) | No – only New York State |
| Medicaid Managed Care | Yes (nationwide, state-dependent) | Yes (only in NY, through NY State of Health) |
| Medicare Advantage | Yes (HMO, PPO, SNP plans) | Yes (HMO, D-SNP plans in NY) |
| ACA Marketplace Plans | Yes (available in many states) | Yes (New York Essential Plan + QHPs) |
| Employer/Group Plans | Yes | No |
Verdict: UnitedHealthcare wins on national reach and plan diversity, while Fidelis Care is highly specialized in New York and excels at local Medicaid and ACA plans.
ACA Marketplace Plans (New York)
| Feature | UnitedHealthcare (in NY) | Fidelis Care |
| Monthly Premiums | $0 – $500+ (with subsidies) | $0 – $400+ (Essential Plan and QHPs) |
| Deductibles | $1,500 – $7,500 | $0 – $1,500 (Essential Plan has no deductible) |
| Out-of-Pocket Max | $4,000 – $9,450 | $2,000 – $6,800 |
| Virtual Care | Included in most plans | Included (Teladoc & Amwell platforms) |
| Dental & Vision | Optional add-ons | Included in some plans |
Verdict: Fidelis Care offers better value for low-income individuals in NY through its Essential Plans. UHC is better for broader plan structures and provider flexibility.
Medicare Advantage Comparison
| Feature | UnitedHealthcare | Fidelis Care |
| Plan Types | HMO, PPO, D-SNP, C-SNP | HMO, D-SNP |
| Prescription Drug Coverage | Included in most MAPD plans | Included in most plans |
| Dental, Vision, Hearing | Yes (varies by plan) | Yes |
| OTC & Grocery Benefits | Yes (with Flex Card, in select plans) | Yes (especially in Dual plans) |
| CMS Star Ratings (2024) | 4.0 – 5.0 stars (depending on region) | 3.5 – 4.0 stars (NY-specific) |
| Fitness/Wellness Perks | Renew Active®, 24/7 nurse hotline | Wellness rewards, health screenings |
Verdict: UnitedHealthcare offers more variety and higher-rated Medicare Advantage plans, while Fidelis Care specializes in New York’s dual-eligible and managed care plans.
Medicaid Coverage
| Feature | UnitedHealthcare (in NY) | Fidelis Care |
| Medicaid Managed Care | Yes (UHC Community Plan) | Yes (Medicaid, Child Health Plus, HARP) |
| Care Coordination | Available through UHC Community Plan | Strong care managers and local partnerships |
| Behavioral Health Integration | Yes | Yes |
| Maternity & Children’s Plans | Yes (Medicaid and CHIP) | Yes (Child Health Plus, Medicaid, Essential) |
Verdict: In New York, Fidelis Care is the dominant Medicaid provider with deep ties to local healthcare systems, but UHC offers strong managed care support statewide.
Provider Networks & Access
| Category | UnitedHealthcare | Fidelis Care |
| Primary Care Providers | Large national & local network | Strong NY-based network, especially in cities |
| Specialist Access | PPO and HMO options | HMO structure with referrals in most plans |
| Hospital Affiliations | National chains and regional hospitals | Tied to New York hospitals and clinics |
| Out-of-Network Coverage | Yes (PPO plans) | No (HMO network only) |
Verdict: UHC offers broader flexibility nationwide, while Fidelis Care is more limited but well-connected in New York.
Customer Satisfaction & Support
UnitedHealthcare:
- Trusted national brand
- 24/7 telehealth, mobile app, in-person agents
- Mixed service reviews by region
Fidelis Care:
- Strong community outreach and bilingual services
- High satisfaction among low-income populations
- Limited outside of New York
Pros and Cons
UnitedHealthcare
Pros:
- Nationwide access and high-rated Medicare plans
- Variety of PPO/HMO/ACA/Medicaid options
- Strong virtual care and wellness programs
- Available in all 50 states
Cons:
- Higher premiums in some markets
- Service quality can vary by region
Fidelis Care
Pros:
- Affordable, low- or no-premium plans in NY
- Strong Medicaid and Essential Plan provider
- Local focus and community-based care
- Ideal for New Yorkers with limited income
Cons:
- Not available outside of New York
- HMO-only network = limited provider flexibility
Which Should You Choose?
Choose UnitedHealthcare if:
- You want flexibility, broad provider access, and nationwide availability
- You’re interested in Medicare Advantage with higher Star Ratings
- You need a variety of plans including PPO and employer coverage
Choose Fidelis Care if:
- You live in New York State and qualify for Medicaid or Essential Plans
- You’re looking for affordable coverage with low out-of-pocket costs
- You want a localized, community-focused health plan
Both UnitedHealthcare and Fidelis Care offer quality coverage, but they serve different populations. UHC is ideal for consumers looking for national access, PPO options, and high-rated Medicare plans, while Fidelis Care is best for New York residents seeking affordable Medicaid or ACA coverage with local care coordination.
Before enrolling:
- Compare plans on HealthCare.gov or NY State of Health
- Check provider directories and drug formularies
- Review Star Ratings and available benefits in your ZIP code