Guide to Prenatal Infection Prevention

By Dr. Kara Worley
OBGYN
Healthy Connections

Dr. Kara Worley

Embarking on the journey of pregnancy is an extraordinary experience filled with hope, anticipation, and a profound sense of responsibility. As we observe International Prenatal Infection Prevention Month this February,

I am here to emphasize the importance of prenatal infection prevention. This month serves as a vital reminder for expectant mothers to adopt practices that safeguard their health and the well-being of their unborn babies. Understanding and implementing strategies to prevent infections during pregnancy is essential for the well-being of both mother and child.

Understanding Prenatal Infections

The risk of prenatal infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), group B streptococcus, and the Zika virus, is a significant concern during pregnancy. Awareness and preventive measures are key to protecting both expectant mothers and their babies from these potential threats. By incorporating effective pregnancy health practices into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce these risks.

Best Practices for Prenatal Infection Prevention

Hygiene and Diet

Good hygiene and a nutritious diet are foundational in preventing prenatal infections. Essential pregnancy hygiene tips, such as frequent handwashing, avoiding raw or undercooked meats, and steering clear of cat litter, can help prevent toxoplasmosis and other infections.

Regular Prenatal Visits

Consistent prenatal care is critical for monitoring both your health and your baby’s development. These visits allow for the early detection and treatment of any potential issues, ensuring a safer pregnancy.

Vaccinations During Pregnancy

Vaccinations play a crucial role in prenatal care, protecting both you and your unborn child from various infections. It’s important to discuss with your healthcare provider the vaccinations recommended during pregnancy, such as the flu shot and the Tdap vaccine.

Environmental Awareness

Being mindful of your environment is also crucial in preventing prenatal infections. Protect yourself against mosquito-borne diseases like the Zika virus by using insect repellent, and avoid areas with known disease outbreaks.

Local Resources for Prenatal Care in the Hot Springs Area

At Healthy Connections, we are committed to providing comprehensive maternal health services to the Hot Springs Area community. Our team of experts is ready to support you with best prenatal care practices for a healthy pregnancy.

Take Action During International Prenatal Infection Prevention Month

As we mark International Prenatal Infection Prevention Month, let’s take proactive steps toward safeguarding our pregnancies. To schedule your appointment and begin your journey toward a healthy pregnancy in the Hot Springs Area, call us at 888-710-8220.

For more information on prenatal care and to access valuable resources, visit Healthy Connections OB/GYN. Our website offers comprehensive guidance to support you through a healthy, informed pregnancy.

Ensuring a Healthy Start for Your Baby

International Prenatal Infection Prevention Month is a time to focus on the importance of preventing infections during pregnancAy. By engaging with recommended healthcare practices, you’re not only protecting yourself but also providing a healthier start for your child. At Healthy Connections, we’re here to support you every step of the way, ensuring a safe and healthy pregnancy for you and your baby in the Hot Springs Area.

Take the steps today towards a healthy tomorrow for your baby. We look forward to being a part of your support system and celebrating the joy of a healthy pregnancy together.

Dr. Kara Worley is an OBGYN with Healthy Connections in Hot Springs, Arkadelphia, and Malvern. Her enthusiastic approach makes her the ideal choice to guide you through your pregnancy. And her #DeliveredByMomCaughtByDrWorley philosophy tells you all you need to know about her. Call 888-710-8220 for appointments. Visit https://healthy-connections.org/ob for information.

 

Justin Wise Wins Sheridan’s Community Service Award

We are excited to share some wonderful news from our Healthy Connections family!

This week, Justin Wise, our Practice Manager for the East Communities, including Sheridan, was honored with the Larry Freier Community Service Award by the Grant County Chamber of Commerce. This award is a recognition of Justin’s dedication and service to the communities of Sheridan and Grant County.

Justin, although relatively new to the Healthy Connections team, has been a significant presence in Sheridan for many years. It’s not the first time he has been recognized for his community service; he also received this award as a teenager. Justin’s commitment to the community is evident in his involvement in local events and initiatives, and his service on several boards, including the Grant County Chamber of Commerce.

At Healthy Connections, our core values are Community, Compassion, and Excellence. Justin perfectly exemplifies these values, making a substantial impact not just within our organization but also in the broader community. His efforts inspire us all and align with our mission to provide quality medical, dental, and behavioral health services to our communities.

Please join us in congratulating Justin Wise on this well-deserved honor. We are proud to have him as part of our team and are excited about the positive impact he will continue to have in our East Communities and beyond.

The Four C’s of HIV Care and the Power of U=U

Navigating a Healthier Future: The Four C’s of Comprehensive HIV Care and the Power of U=U

By Dr. Sharon Meador MD
Physician
Healthy Connections

Sharon Meador, MD

In the face of HIV, a disease that has touched countless lives globally, our mission at Healthy Connections has never been more critical. As we navigate the complexities of HIV care, our guiding principles, rooted in the Four C’s: Crisis, Condoms, Cultures, and Community, are bolstered by the transformative message of U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable). This pivotal concept underscores that effectively treating HIV to the point where the virus becomes undetectable in blood tests results in zero risk of transmission through sex or from mother to child, marking a monumental step in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Crisis: The First Step is Knowledge

The HIV epidemic remains a pressing health crisis, with an estimated 1.2 million people worldwide living with HIV. Confidential testing is the cornerstone of our approach, allowing individuals to gain vital knowledge about their status and the latest in treatment advancements. Understanding that nearly 20% of people living with HIV are unaware of their condition, we advocate for everyone to be tested at least once. The journey to managing HIV often begins with a simple step: taking one pill a day. This treatment approach has transformed HIV into a manageable condition, significantly enhancing quality of life.

Condoms: More Than Prevention

Condoms stand as our first line of defense against HIV transmission. Their correct and consistent use can dramatically reduce the risk of HIV, underscoring our dedication to sexual health education and access to condoms. Beyond HIV, condoms are instrumental in preventing other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), reinforcing their role in a comprehensive sexual health strategy.

Cultures: Embracing Diversity with Sensitivity

Understanding and respecting cultural differences is essential in our approach to HIV prevention and care. Our services are designed to be culturally sensitive, acknowledging the diverse beliefs and practices that influence health behaviors. This respect for diversity enhances our ability to connect with communities on a deeper level, fostering an environment where everyone feels seen and supported.

Community: A United Front Against Stigma

Our final ‘C’ highlights the indispensable role of the community in overcoming HIV-related stigma and discrimination. By fostering a supportive network through HIV support groups and comprehensive care services, we strive to create a space where individuals can find not just medical care but also a sense of belonging and acceptance.

U=U: A Message of Hope and Transformation

The U=U campaign is a beacon of hope, offering a powerful testament to the advances in HIV treatment. By achieving and maintaining an undetectable viral load, individuals living with HIV can lead healthy, fulfilling lives without fear of transmitting the virus to others. This message is integral to our education and treatment strategies, emphasizing that with proper treatment, HIV is not a barrier to a full, healthy life.

At Healthy Connections, we are committed to a world where comprehensive HIV care is accessible to all, guided by the principles of Community, Compassion, and Excellence. Join us in this vital journey by reaching out for testing, treatment, and support. We have locations throughout central and western Arkansas that can provide help and hope. Call us at 888-710-8220. Learn more about our services at https://healthy-connections.org.

Together, we can navigate a healthier future for everyone affected by HIV.

Dr. Sharon Meador is a dedicated physician at the Little Rock Midtown clinic of Healthy Connections, a Federally-Qualified Health Center (FQHC) celebrating more than 25 years of community care. As a certified HIV Specialist, Dr. Meador provides primary care, HIV treatment, MAT, LGBTQ+ services, PrEP, and more. She is also a Ryan White HIV/AIDS Medical Provider. For appointments, call 888-710-8220. Discover how we embody our philosophy of Community, Compassion, and Excellence at www.healthy-connections.org.

Healthy Connections Announces Sheridan Clinic Reopening

Healthy Connections is excited to announce the Sheridan clinic reopening, marking a new chapter in healthcare for the community. With extensive renovations completed, we are proud to unveil our new location at 1409 S. Rock St., Suite B in Sheridan. This transformation has created a modern healthcare facility designed to cater to the diverse needs of every patient.

State-of-the-Art Facilities for Comprehensive Care

Featuring state-of-the-art exam rooms, a dedicated telehealth services suite, and a fully-equipped lab, our clinic is poised to offer comprehensive primary care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. To accommodate our patients’ busy schedules, we’ve introduced extended hours at our medical clinic in Sheridan, operating from 7:45 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Thursday, ensuring healthcare is accessible to everyone in Grant County.

Welcome Dr. Marty Hearyman: A New Face of Care in Sheridan

We’re thrilled to introduce Dr. Marty Hearyman as a recent addition to our team. As a new healthcare provider in Sheridan, Dr. Hearyman’s extensive experience and unique background as a former college football player and high school coach enrich our primary care services.

Exciting Developments: New Provider and Future Services

Healthy Connections is not only excited about the introduction of a new provider to the Sheridan Clinic but is also planning to offer additional health services at this location in the future. These expansions will enhance our capacity to serve the community with an even broader range of healthcare options, demonstrating our commitment to evolving with the healthcare needs of our patients.

Comprehensive Healthcare Access for Sheridan Patients

Patients at our Sheridan location have access to the full suite of services provided by Healthy Connections across west and central Arkansas. This ensures that whether you need specialized care or access to a variety of health services, comprehensive healthcare is within reach.

Our Commitment to Accessibility

Dedicated to making healthcare accessible to all, Healthy Connections accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurances, including United Healthcare and Humana. Our sliding fee scale medical care in Sheridan ensures that uninsured patients can also receive the care they need at affordable rates.

A Message from Our CEO

Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, shares his enthusiasm for the reopening and the clinic’s dedication to excellence. “The Healthy Connections clinic renovation reflects our unwavering commitment to serving the community with the highest standards of care.”

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the new Healthy Connections Sheridan Clinic firsthand. To schedule your appointment, call 888-710-8220 or visit our website. Discover more about our primary care services in Sheridan and our dedicated team at Healthy Connections Sheridan Clinic.

Students Can Partipate in Sealants Without School

Healthy Connections is gearing up for the Polk County Dental Sealant Project, in proud collaboration with the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Dental Hygiene School. This project is aimed at providing vital dental care and sealants to students from 2nd to 6th grade within the Mena School District, Ouachita River School District, and Cossatot River School District.

Mark Your Calendars!

Appointments are available on Thursday, February 22nd. Don’t miss this opportunity for your child to receive essential dental care!

Is Your Child’s School Not Participating? No Problem!

If your child’s school isn’t part of this initiative or if you haven’t received a form, you can still participate! Download the Registration and Consent Forms on this page, and return them to us at Healthy Connections Dental via fax (866-573-0761, ATTN: Dental), email (awright@healthy-connections.org), or drop them off in person (136 Health Park Lane, Mena, AR) by Tuesday, February 20th, 5:30 PM.

We’ll confirm your appointment time upon receipt of the forms. If the scheduled time doesn’t work for you, let us know! We’re here to accommodate your needs.

SEALANT Q & A

  • What are dental sealants? Thin, protective coatings for the chewing surfaces of back teeth, preventing decay.
  • Why are they important? Sealants keep out germs and food, reducing the risk of decay and the need for future dental work.
  • Can my child still brush their teeth? Absolutely! Sealants don’t replace good hygiene habits; they enhance them.

Plus, learn about Fluoride Varnish! A treatment to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay.

Don’t miss out on this chance to protect your child’s smile. Visit Healthy Connections Dental today for more information and to secure your spot.

Let’s keep those smiles bright and healthy together!