In Arkansas, cases of HIV and syphilis have been climbing at some of the fastest rates in the country. According to the CDC, syphilis rates nearly tripled nationally in the last decade, and Arkansas has felt that impact most sharply in several rural counties. What makes this even more urgent is that many people never know they’re carrying an infection until it has already caused serious damage.
Take John, for example. He was a young professional in Central Arkansas who felt healthy and had no symptoms. When he finally came in for routine testing, he discovered an infection that could have caused lifelong complications if left untreated. Instead, because he checked, he received treatment right away and is now living a healthy life. His story is proof of a simple truth: the only way to know is to check.
That’s why Healthy Connections is launching the Check. Protect. Respect. campaign. For more than 25 years, our clinics across Arkansas have made testing confidential, compassionate, and accessible. Our message is simple: when Arkansans check their health, they protect themselves, respect their future, and strengthen their communities.
Why HIV and STI Testing Matters
HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) don’t discriminate. They affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and communities. Many of these conditions, including syphilis, can remain silent for months or even years. Left untreated, they can lead to devastating consequences, from organ and neurological damage to life-threatening illness.
But knowledge changes everything:
- Check. A test gives you answers that guessing never will.
- Protect. Treatment and prevention keep you—and your loved ones—safe.
- Respect. Knowing your status shows respect for yourself and for your community.
Testing isn’t about shame or risk—it’s about responsibility. It’s a decision to take control of your health, care for your partner, and protect your community.
Comprehensive Care in Your Community
At Healthy Connections, testing is just the beginning. We offer full-service healthcare for every stage of life:
- HIV and STI testing, prevention, and treatment (including PrEP).
- Primary care and family medicine for children, adults, and seniors.
- Behavioral health therapy and medication management.
- Dental care, women’s health, pediatrics, cardiology, and more.
With clinics in Hot Springs, Malvern, De Queen, Mena, Texarkana, Russellville, and communities across Arkansas, we are here where you live and work.
We accept Medicaid, Medicare, most private insurance, and offer a sliding fee scale for those without insurance. No one is turned away because of cost.
Community, Compassion, Excellence
Healthy Connections has served Arkansas for more than 25 years, guided by our three pillars: Community, Compassion, and Excellence. That means you’ll always receive more than just a test—you’ll be welcomed with respect, listened to without judgment, and given expert care you can trust.
Our providers live here, raise their families here, and care about the same communities you do. That’s why Arkansans have trusted us for decades—not only for primary care, but also as the state’s experts in testing, prevention, and treatment.
It’s Time to Check. Protect. Respect.
Putting off testing doesn’t make risk disappear. It only increases the chances of serious, lasting consequences. Whether it’s for yourself, your partner, or someone you love, the time to act is now.
A simple test can give you peace of mind—or it can save your life. Either way, you win by knowing.
Call 888-710-8220 or visit www.healthy-connections.org today to schedule your confidential appointment at a Healthy Connections clinic near you.