December Employees of the Month

Christi Martin

Our December 2023 Employees of the Month are Christi Martin and Steven Blake. They have been chosen for going above and beyond in exemplifying our three pillars of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.

West Communities: Christi Martin

Christi, a lead Patient Care Coordinator at the Mena clinic, has been a true pillar of compassion within the Healthy Connections family. Always ready to lend a helping hand, her commitment to the well-being of our community is truly commendable. Colleagues describe her as someone who is””always willing to help and always there to lend you her smile if you don’t have your own.” Christi’s warmth and dedication have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the lives of those she serves.

East Communities: Steven Blake

Steven, a Medical Assistant at the Hot Springs Central clinic, is a shining example of commitment and teamwork. His flexibility and willingness to adjust his schedule to ensure every clinic has adequate coverage showcase his dedication to the community’s health. Colleagues have praised him, noting that “Steven will change his schedule and float to different areas to ensure every clinic has adequate coverage. He never complains, comes to work to work, and is a great team player.” Steven’s selfless approach to his work reflects the very essence of Healthy Connections.

Steven Blake

As we celebrate Christi and Steven as our December Employees of the Month, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering commitment to our three pillars. Their contributions not only enhance the quality of care we provide but also embody the spirit of community, compassion, and excellence that defines Healthy Connections. As winners, they will receive a $50 credit to the HC Hub Company Store.

Do you know who should be our next Healthy Connections employee of the month? Visit the HC Hub Employee Intranet to find the nomination form.

Congratulations, Christi and Steven, for being the shining stars that brighten our Healthy Connections family!

 

 

Moore Completes NPMC’s First Da Vinci Procedure

Revolutionizing Women’s Care: Dr. Pittman Moore Leads with First NPMC Da Vinci Surgery-Assisted Hysterectomy

Image courtesy Dr. Pittman Moore

Healthy Connections’ Dr Pittman Moore, OBGYN, completed the first  Da Vinci Robot-Assisted hysterectomy at National Park Medical Center in Hot Springs.

This milestone demonstrates Healthy Connections providers’ dedication to pushing the boundaries of women’s care and offering patients advanced treatment options.

Enhanced Recovery, Minimized Impact

The Da Vinci system’s precision translates to a significantly improved surgical experience for patients. Compared to traditional methods, robot-assisted surgery boasts:

  • 40 percent reduction in blood loss
  • 30 percent smaller incisions
  • 25 percent faster recovery times

These benefits not only ensure a quicker return to everyday life for patients but also contribute to an overall improved patient experience, marked by reduced pain and discomfort.

Women’s Health Services with Dr. Pittman Moore

Dr. Moore provides women’s health services and bioidentical hormones at several Healthy Connections locations in Arkansas. His services also include evaluation and treatment of urinary incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, menopause treatment, pelvic floor reconstructive surgery, and laparoscopic (and now Da Vinci assisted) hysterectomy. Additionally, he treats both women and men with Biote bioidentical hormone treatment.

Strengthening the Team, Broadening Expertise

Further expanding its comprehensive women’s health program, Healthy Connections welcomes Dr. Kara Worley, a seasoned OBGYN with extensive expertise in obstetrics. Dr. Worley’s arrival bolsters the program’s scope, offering expert prenatal care, delivery options, and postpartum support. Patients across the region now have access to Dr. Worley’s specialized skills at various Healthy Connections locations, including NPMC where she delivers babies.

Seamless and Supportive:

Healthy Connections prioritizes a patient-centric approach, seamlessly blending the community focus of a Federally Qualified Health Center with the personalized care of a private practice. This translates to:

  • Streamlined scheduling: Request appointments online for any service, then enjoy efficient follow-up from our friendly team. Or call us at 888-710-8220.
  • Integrated records: Access your medical history and test results easily and securely through our patient portal.
  • Dedicated support teams: Get personalized guidance and assistance from knowledgeable professionals throughout your journey.

This stress-free and empowering healthcare experience ensures every woman feels heard, understood, and supported.

Experience the Difference

Drs. Moore and Worley, and the entire Healthy Connections team, provide women throughout Western and Central Arkansas with access to compassionate care. Whether you require routine checkups, advanced treatments, or simply want to explore the benefits of robot-assisted surgery for procedures like hysterectomy or myomectomy, take the first step towards enhanced women’s healthcare – schedule your consultation today!

About Healthy Connections

Healthy Connections is a cornerstone of medical, dental, and behavioral health services in Western and Central Arkansas. Driven by a commitment to Community, Compassion, and Excellence, they continue to redefine healthcare accessibility and quality across the region.

Andrea Wright Named 2023 Employee of the Year

Director of Practice Management Recognized for Outstanding Dedication and Versatility

Healthy Connections is proud to announce Andrea Wright as the 2023 Employee of the Year. As the Director of Practice Management, Andrea has displayed exceptional dedication, versatility, and an unwavering commitment to the organization’s core values of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.

Andrea’s journey with Healthy Connections began in 2013 when she joined as a Patient Care Coordinator (PCC). Over the years, she has steadily climbed the ranks, showcasing her passion for the community and commitment to delivering quality healthcare services. Today, as the Director of Practice Management, Andrea plays a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless operation of our clinics.

Her ability to handle a diverse range of responsibilities with grace and proficiency sets her apart. Despite her demanding role, Andrea has consistently gone above and beyond, taking on additional tasks and responsibilities without hesitation. Her work ethic and positive attitude have made her an indispensable member of the Healthy Connections family.

One notable achievement is Andrea’s instrumental role in the reorganization of the Dental department. Despite limited prior knowledge of this specialty, Andrea fearlessly embraced the challenge, dedicating countless hours to understanding and improving the department’s operations. Her proactive approach and determination have significantly contributed to the enhancement of dental services provided by Healthy Connections.

“Andrea’s dedication and willingness to take on any challenge have made a lasting impact on our organization,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc. ‘This recognition is well-deserved, and we are fortunate to have Andrea as a leader in our team.”

Fox, Geiling Named 2023 Providers of Year

Exceptional Providers Recognized for Outstanding Contributions to Healthcare Excellence

Healthy Connections proudly announces Dr. Patrick Fox and Zachary Geiling, APRN, as the Providers of the Year for 2023. Both esteemed healthcare professionals have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their patients and have played integral roles in the success and growth of their respective clinics.

Dr. Patrick Fox: A Leading Force in Primary Care

Dr. Patrick Fox, a Primary Care/Family Medicine Physician based at the Mena clinic, rejoined Healthy Connections in 2023 for his second stint with the organization. Dr. Fox is renowned as one of the top providers in the region, and his patients followed him back to Healthy Connections, a testament to the trust and confidence they have in his care.

Consistently earning 5-star reviews, Dr. Fox has achieved a remarkable 4.9 star average on Google, a 4.9 star average on Birdeye, and a perfect 5.0 star rating on WebMD. His commitment to excellence and the well-being of his patients has set a high standard for healthcare provision at Healthy Connections.

“Dr. Fox’s return to Healthy Connections has been a tremendous asset to our organization. His reputation for delivering exceptional care and his consistently outstanding reviews reflect his dedication to the highest standards of healthcare. We are proud to name him Provider of the Year for 2023,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc.

Zachary Geiling, APRN: Driving Growth and Excellence in Hot Springs Village

Zachary Geiling, APRN, a family nurse practitioner based at the Hot Springs Village clinic, has been instrumental in the growth of the clinic since its inception in 2022. Under his guidance, the clinic has flourished from a modest start to a bustling center of healthcare excellence.

Patients consistently express their appreciation for the exceptional care provided by Zach. In 2023, he was honored as the Medical Provider of the Year by the readers of the Hot Springs Village Voice, further highlighting his impact on the local community. Zach consistently earns 5-star ratings, boasting a perfect 5.0 star rating on Google and Birdeye.

“Zach’s commitment to patient care and his role in the remarkable growth of our Hot Springs Village clinic make him truly deserving of the Provider of the Year recognition,” Calandro said. “His dedication and positive impact on the community align with Healthy Connections’ values, and we are grateful to have him on our team.”

The Provider of the Year awards were presented to Dr. Patrick Fox and Zachary Geiling at the annual Christmas parties held in December, celebrating their outstanding contributions to healthcare excellence at Healthy Connections.

2023 Healthy Connections Employee Awards

Healthy Connections Community Health Network is excited to announce our 2023 Employee Award winners.

These employees exemplified our three pillars of Community, Compassion, and Excellence throughout the year. Check back each day as we announce the winners in all 8 categories.

Customer Service Award (Dec. 11)

  • Lauren Gage, Mena
  • Cindy Dillavou, Arkadelphia

Lauren Gage, a financial counselor in billing at the Mena clinic since 2020, and Cindy Dillvou, a Patient Care Coordinator (PCC) in Arkadelphia since 2022, are the recipients of the Customer Service Award. These dedicated individuals consistently provide exceptional customer service to patients, whether interacting over the phone or in person. Their commitment to ensuring a positive and supportive experience for patients reflects the values of Healthy Connections.

Support Staff Super Star Award (Dec. 12)

The Support Staff Super Star Award goes to Paula Bradley, an administrative assistant in Mena since 2021, and Kristen West, a PCC Training Coordinator based in Hot Springs, who has been with Healthy Connections since 2017. Paula and Kristen play vital roles in supporting various staff members with information, training, and whatever assistance is needed. Their dedication to the smooth operation of the organization contributes significantly to the overall success of Healthy Connections.

  • Paula Bradley, Mena
  • Kristen West, Hot Springs

Rookies of the Year (Dec. 13)

Brittany Mayberry, an LPN in Mount Ida, and Jessica Hood, the Director of Nursing, are recognized as the Rookies of the Year. Brittany, who joined in February, and Jessica, who has been with Healthy Connections since January, have made notable contributions in their short time with the organization. Jessica’s role in recruitment and organization has been particularly impactful in enhancing the nursing and support staff.

  • Brittany Mayberry, Mt. Ida
  • Jessica Hood, Director of Nursing

Rising Star Award (Dec. 14)

Lisa England, the lead in Medical Records, and Ashley Steadham, a lead Patient Care Coordinator (PCC), are the recipients of the Rising Star Award. Joining Healthy Connections in 2023, Lisa and Ashley have demonstrated outstanding work and show promise for a bright future within the organization. Their commitment to excellence is evident in their respective roles, with Ashley based in Malvern and Lisa in Mena.

  • Lisa England, Mena
  • Ashley Steadham, Malvern Pinnacle

Behind the Scenes Hero Award (Dec. 18)

Tammy Abner, the manager of clinic services since 2013, and RosaLea Dodson, a remote bookkeeper since 2022, are honored with the Behind the Scenes Hero Award. While the public may not see their contributions, Tammy and RosaLea are integral to the organization’s success. Their behind-the-scenes efforts enhance the work environment and ensure that Healthy Connections continues to provide excellent care to patients.

  • Tammy Abner, Mena
  • RosaLea Dodson, Remote

Game Changer Award (Dec. 19)

Shane McWilliams, the Power Platform Business Analyst, and Jeffrey Slatton, the Business Communications and Marketing Manager, are recognized as the Game Changers of the Year. Shane’s efforts in bridging IT and staff across locations and Jeffrey’s transformative contributions to marketing and communication have had a profound impact on Healthy Connections. Their innovative approaches and dedication to excellence make them true game-changers for the organization.

  • Shane McWilliams, Remote
  • Jeffrey Slatton, Hot Springs

Providers of the Year (Dec. 20)

Dr. Patrick Fox and Zachary Geiling, APRN, are our 2023 Healthy Connections Providers of the Year. Click here to learn more about them and why they were selected.

  • Patrick Fox, MD, Mena
  • Zachary Geiling, APRN, Hot Springs Village

Employee of the Year (Dec. 21)

Director of Practice Management Andrea Wright has been named the 2023 Healthy Connections Employee of the Year. Click here to learn more about her and why she was selected.

  • Andrea Wright

Welcome FNP Angelia Paylor to Russellville

Healthy Connections is excited to announce that experienced Family Nurse Practitioner Angelia Paylor, APRN, is now accepting new patients at the Healthy Connections Russellville Clinic.

The clinic is located at 3312 West Main St., in Russellville and is open from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Angelia will see patients in the mornings. Call 888-710-8220 to schedule appointments. Walk-ins are also available during morning hours.  She will see patients for primary care/family medicine and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT).

Angelia’s experience is woven into the healthcare fabric of the River Valley. Before joining Healthy Connections, she played a vital role in providing home health services at Trinity Home Health River Valley, contributing to the well-being of patients in the comfort of their homes. Angelia’s dedication to patient care also left an indelible mark at CHI St. Vincent Morrilton, where she further honed her skills and passion for healthcare. Her commitment extends to Johnson Regional Medical Center, showcasing a diverse range of experiences that enrich her approach to comprehensive healthcare.

Angelia is a Dover native and brings a profound understanding of the values that make a community strong. Her educational journey started at the University of Central Arkansas, where she earned her Family Nurse Practitioner credentials with a Master’s in Nursing. Angelia continued to nurture her passion for care at Arkansas Tech University, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Beyond her professional roles, Angelia actively participates in community activities at Zion Lutheran Church in Augsburg, particularly in their Food Pantry. Her involvement reflects a holistic approach to healthcare that extends beyond clinical walls and encompasses the broader fabric of community well-being.

Embodying the Healthy Connections three pillars of Community, Compassion, and Excellence, Angelia Paylor’s services cover a spectrum of care. From acute and chronic conditions across all age groups to preventive medicine, physicals, immunizations, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT), Angelia is committed to delivering personalized and compassionate healthcare.

“We are delighted to welcome Angelia Paylor to our Healthy Connections family. Her wealth of experience, dedication to community service, and commitment to patient care align perfectly with our mission. We look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly have on the health and well-being of our community,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc.

The Russellville clinic also features the services of Dr. Leslie Ward, who sees patients for HIV, MAT, and more; and Dr. Pittman Moore, who see’s patients for women’s health services and Biote, bioidentical hormone treatment.

Healthy Connections believes that quality healthcare should be accessible to everyone. This clinic accepts patients with various insurance plans, including Medicaid, ARKids 1st, Medicare, and most health insurance. For those without insurance, we offer a sliding-fee scale for qualifying individuals, ensuring that no one is left without the care they deserve.

Join us in extending a warm welcome to Angelia Paylor as she embarks on this new chapter of healing and care at Healthy Connections Russellville. Together, let’s build a healthier and more connected community.