Welcome Matt York, APRN, to Healthy Connections and My Kids Pediatric Clinic in Hot Springs
Healthy Connections and My Kids Pediatric Clinic are thrilled to announce the addition of Matt York, APRN, to our healthcare team in Hot Springs. As a Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in both pediatric and adult care, Matt joins us at our location at 3604 Central Avenue, Suite D. Our clinics embody the commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare services across all ages in the Hot Springs community.
Comprehensive Pediatric and Adult Care
Matt York brings his expertise to My Kids Pediatric Clinic and Healthy Connections, enhancing our capacity to offer top-tier pediatric care and adult primary care in Hot Springs. His approach to healthcare is deeply rooted in compassion and understanding, ensuring a seamless experience for patients and their families.
“Healthy Connections is a good fit for me. They need someone that’s going to be able to see pediatric patients and then go immediately to the next room and maybe see a 75-year-old, and I’m comfortable doing both,” he said.
Healthy Connections, Inc., CEO Tony Calandro said York is an ideal match for the Hot Springs Central location.
“Bringing Matt into our team is more than just adding a skilled practitioner; it’s about enriching our family with someone who embodies our core values of community, compassion, and excellence,” Calandro said. “Matt’s unique ability to connect with patients of all ages and backgrounds, coupled with his dedication to providing inclusive healthcare, perfectly aligns with our mission to serve and uplift the entire Hot Springs community.”
Pediatric Healthcare Services in Hot Springs
My Kids Pediatric Clinic, which also features Jeremy Porter, MD, and Melanie Newman, APRN, is set to redefine pediatric healthcare in Hot Springs. York’s commitment to making healthcare visits enjoyable and memorable ensures that children and their families have a positive experience.
“I don’t take things seriously. I have a good time. Everybody’s going to enjoy seeing me. We pal around and joke and have a good time, and I will remember little funny things about the last visit, usually bring them up.,” he said.
Adult Healthcare Services in Hot Springs
Healthy Connections welcomes adults to benefit from Matt York’s comprehensive approach to adult medicine. Matt’s ability to cater to the complex needs of adult patients while maintaining a light-hearted and engaging environment makes him a valuable asset. His approach underscores the clinic’s mission to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for the adult population in Hot Springs.
Accepting Medicaid, ARKids 1st, and Medicare in Hot Springs
Ensuring accessibility to healthcare is a priority for both Healthy Connections and My Kids Pediatric Clinic. York emphasizes the importance of this inclusivity. Our clinics are dedicated to serving the community by accepting Medicaid, ARKids 1st, Medicare, and most health insurance plans, alongside offering a sliding fee scale for those without insurance.
“I would estimate 90 percent of the patients that I see in the pediatric clinic have Medicaid. It doesn’t change care. It can be nice because things get covered that private insurance won’t usually cover,” he said.
Join Us at 3604 Central Avenue, Suite D, for Family Healthcare
Our clinic at 3604 Central Avenue, Suite D, stands as a beacon of health and wellness in Hot Springs, offering a range of services tailored to meet the healthcare needs of both children and adults. In addition to primary care and pediatrics services, the Hot Springs Central Avenue location offers Women’s Health, Obstetrics, Gynecology, Bioidentical hormone treatment, wound care, and more.
Matt will begin seeing patients in early May. To schedule an appointment or for more information about our comprehensive healthcare services, please call 888-710-8220.
Healthy Connections Announces March 2024 Shining STAR Employees of the Month
Healthy Connections is proud to announce the March 2024 Shining STAR Employees of the Month: Schanae Rocha, a dental assistant at our Mena clinic, and Chelsi Snider, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at our Hot Springs Chippewa clinic. Rocha and Snider have been recognized for their outstanding embodiment of our core values: Community, Compassion, and Excellence, receiving nominations from their peers for their exceptional work and contributions to our health center and the communities we serve.
Schanae Rocha stepped up significantly during a time when both our Mena and Hot Springs locations faced challenges in dental operations. As a single mother, she managed her personal responsibilities with precision to ensure she could provide necessary dental services at the Chippewa dental department. Rocha’s commitment involved early mornings and late evenings, traveling from Mena to Hot Springs to assist where needed, showcasing a strong commitment to our community’s health needs.
Chelsi Snider is recognized by her colleagues as an exemplary nurse who consistently performs at a high level of professionalism and respect towards staff and patients alike. Snider’s approach to her work, giving 110% every day, highlights her as a model of excellence and a valued member of the Healthy Connections team.
In recognition of their contributions, both Rocha and Snider will be awarded a $50 credit to the HC Hub Company store.
Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, offered his congratulations, saying, “Schanae and Chelsi stand as prime examples of what we value at Healthy Connections. Their actions and commitment to our pillars of Community, Compassion, and Excellence not only contribute significantly to our mission but also set a high bar for all of us. We are grateful for their efforts and proud to acknowledge their achievements.”
At Healthy Connections, we believe those who embody our values of Community, Compassion, and Excellence can profoundly impact our team and the communities we serve. If these values resonate with you and you’re seeking a rewarding career path, we invite you to consider joining our team. For more information on career opportunities, please visit https://healthy-connections.org/careers.
Healthy Connections Announces Clark Roberts, APRN, Joining Sheridan Clinic
Healthy Connections is proud to announce the addition of Clark Roberts, APRN, to the Sheridan Clinic team. Roberts brings a wealth of experience in family medicine and a strong commitment to providing compassionate patient care. His arrival aligns with Healthy Connections’ mission of offering accessible, high-quality healthcare services. Recently relocating to Sheridan, Roberts is eager to meet and serve the community.
Commitment to Community Healthcare
Roberts’ approach to healthcare is deeply rooted in the principles of compassion, excellence, and community service. With extensive experience in rural and underserved areas, he brings a deep understanding of the unique healthcare challenges and opportunities within community settings. “Joining the Sheridan community is incredibly meaningful to me,” said Roberts. “I look forward to forming lasting connections and ensuring that everyone has access to the quality care they deserve.”
Journey to Family Medicine
Inspired by the impact of nursing on a family member’s health, Roberts embarked on a path that led from being an ER nurse to achieving a Master’s degree in Nursing and specializing in family practice. This journey reflects his desire to positively influence the health and well-being of his patients. “Every patient presents a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on their health,” Roberts shared.
Excellence in Comprehensive Care
Roberts’ expertise spans a wide range of healthcare services, from primary care for all ages to specialized treatments such as Medication-assisted Treatment (MAT) and HIV care. He is committed to a holistic approach to healthcare, addressing the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of patient care. “Providing comprehensive, empathetic care is my primary goal, ensuring each patient receives the continuum of care they need,” he stated.
Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, expressed his enthusiasm for Roberts’ addition, “Clark Roberts is distinguished by his compassionate approach and dedication to healthcare. His broad expertise and patient-centric approach are tremendous assets to our clinic in Sheridan.”
A New Chapter in Healthcare and Community Engagement
Roberts has already relocated to Sheridan and is looking forward to becoming an active member of the community. “As a healthcare partner, I aim to provide personalized care that meets the diverse needs of our patients,” Roberts said, extending an invitation to the community to visit the Sheridan Clinic for their healthcare needs.
With the addition of Clark Roberts, APRN, Healthy Connections reinforces its commitment to improving community health through dedicated service and quality care. Roberts’ expertise and dedication to healthcare excellence and community engagement are set to make a significant impact on the Sheridan Clinic and the community it serves.
Healthy Connections Welcomes Leslie Collie, APRN, to Our Arkadelphia and Malvern Clinics
Healthy Connections is excited to announce Leslie Collie, APRN, as a new addition to our healthcare team. As a Family Nurse Practitioner who is also an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Leslie will provide services in Arkadelphia and Malvern, enhancing our primary care and women’s health services.
Bringing Valuable Experience to Patient Care
With more than 20 years of experience in nursing, specializing in nursery, labor, and delivery, Leslie is well-equipped to join Healthy Connections. “I’ve always been passionate about making a difference in people’s lives through healthcare. Joining Healthy Connections allows me to extend that impact to more individuals and families in Arkadelphia and Malvern,” Leslie said.
Leslie’s arrival is warmly received across the organization, with CEO Tony Calandro noting, “We’re delighted to have Leslie join us. Her experience, skills, and dedication to healthcare excellence align perfectly with our mission to provide comprehensive, compassionate care.”
Enhancing Women’s Health Services
Leslie is poised to make a significant impact in women’s health, leveraging her certification as an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant. “Women’s health is a cornerstone of family health. I’m looking forward to using my skills to support women and their families in this community,” Leslie said, emphasizing her dedication to a holistic approach to healthcare.
Education and Professional Development
Leslie’s commitment to her field is underpinned by a solid educational foundation and continuous professional development. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Henderson State University, further solidifying her expertise in healthcare. Her certification as an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant was achieved after completing 90 hours of coursework and over 5000 hours of clinical breastfeeding education. This dedication to learning and growth ensures that Leslie brings the latest in healthcare practices to Healthy Connections.
Committed to the Community
A native of Arkadelphia, Leslie brings not only her professional expertise but also her deep personal connection to the community. Her involvement extends beyond the clinic, including educational initiatives like childbirth preparation classes. “Being from Arkadelphia, I understand the unique health needs of our community. I’m excited to give back to the place that has given me so much,” Leslie said.
An Invitation to Health and Well-being
Leslie is ready to welcome patients and address their healthcare needs. “Healthcare is a journey we take together with our patients. Whether it’s a routine check-up or more specialized care, I’m here to support you every step of the way,” Leslie said, inviting individuals and families to connect with Healthy Connections.
To schedule an appointment with Leslie Collie, APRN, or to learn more about the services at Healthy Connections, please call 888-710-8220. We are committed to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare, anchored by our core values of community, compassion, and excellence.
By Tamara Tate, APRN
Family Nurse Practitioner
Healthy Connections
Tamara Tate APRN
Understanding the profound impact of sleep on our overall health is crucial. As a Family Nurse Practitioner with Healthy Connections, I’ve seen firsthand how quality sleep—or the lack thereof—affects everything from immune function to weight management. It’s not merely about being well-rested; it’s about educating our community on the myriad benefits of quality sleep and the risks associated with sleep deprivation. Sleep is as critical to our well-being as a balanced diet and regular exercise, yet it often receives less attention in our health discussions.
The Crucial Role of Quality Sleep in Physical, Mental, and Emotional Well-being
Quality sleep stands as a pillar of good health, influencing various facets of our lives. Physically, it supports heart health and is fundamental for a robust immune system. Mentally, it plays a vital role in cognitive functions such as memory consolidation and problem-solving skills. Emotionally, maintaining good sleep hygiene can significantly improve mood regulation and stress management, highlighting sleep’s essential role in our emotional well-being. Moreover, good sleep habits are linked to lower risks of chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, illustrating the broad impact of sleep on physical health.
How to Improve Sleep Quality
To enhance sleep quality, adopting healthy sleep habits is essential. Here are some practical strategies to help you get better rest:
- Establish a consistent sleep schedule to help regulate your body’s internal clock.
- Develop a relaxing bedtime routine to signal your body that it’s time to wind down.
- Optimize your sleeping environment by ensuring it’s quiet, dark, and maintained at a comfortable temperature.
- Limit exposure to screens and blue light before bedtime, as they can disrupt sleep patterns.
For those experiencing sleep difficulties or seeking to learn more about improving sleep, professional advice can be invaluable. Sleep disorders can have a significant impact on your health, so consulting with a healthcare provider experienced in sleep medicine is crucial for making meaningful improvements.
Closing Thoughts
The critical role that sleep plays in our health and well-being cannot be overstated. By adopting healthy sleep practices and understanding the consequences of sleep deprivation, we can enhance our quality of life. Recognizing the importance of sleep is the first step towards prioritizing it in our daily routines. I am committed to supporting your journey toward better sleep and, consequently, better health. Together, we can work towards achieving not just more sleep, but better quality sleep for a healthier, more vibrant life.
Tamara Tate is a Family Nurse Practitioner with Healthy Connections Malvern Teeter Plaza. For appointments and more information, call 888-710-8220 or visit https://healthy-connections.org.
