Winter Wellness for Kids

Essential Tips and Immunity Strategies to Get Through Winter

By Dr. Jeremy Porter
My Kids Pediatric Clinic

Jeremy Porter, MD

Welcome, parents, to a journey of winter wellness for your little ones!

Together, let’s explore important child health tips and winter immunity strategies to transform your children into Winter Wellness Warriors, equipped to conquer the chilly season with robust immune systems.

From Sneeze Monsters to Superhero Squad: Conquering Winter Woes with Your Mighty Minis

Embark on this health adventure with us in Hot Springs and Malvern. Explore a mix of snowball fights, cozy firesides, and essential steps to prevent kids’ flu and colds. Join our pediatric care mission at My Kids Pediatric Clinic, prioritizing preventive measures to keep your little heroes healthy.

Handwashing Heroes: The Secret Weapon in Your Child’s Winter Arsenal

Discover the importance of handwashing for kids, our unsung heroes in preventing winter illnesses. Learn the steps to turn handwashing into a superpower.  Are you seeking pediatric care that prioritizes prioritizing prevention?  We’ve got you covered!  Look no further than My Kids Pediatric Clinic.

Snuggle Squad Secrets: Sleep Strategies for Supercharged Immunity

Discover the significance of sleep for children, a crucial player in strengthening their immune systems. Establish bedtime routines and create cozy sleep environments for well-rested superheroes ready to tackle the day!

Power Up With Nutritious Foods: Fueling Winter Warriors with Vitamin-Packed Goodness

Uncover the secrets of superhero fuel – the right nutrients. Load up on vitamin C with citrus fruits and bell peppers. Include zinc-rich foods like lean meats and nuts to give your child’s immune system an extra kick. Turn fruits and veggies into the colorful capes of our Winter Wellness Warriors!

Home Sweet (and Sicky) Home: Battling Colds Like a Pro (Without Leaving the Couch)

If the unfortunate cold strikes, fear not! Encourage hydration for well-fueled warriors, promote rest, and explore home remedies like honey for sore throats. Remember, a little Tender Loving Care (TLC) and laughter go a long way in healing!

Winter of Joy, Warmth, and Resilience: Empowering Your Little Ones

Let’s make this winter a season of joy, warmth, and resilience. Join us in Hot Springs, Malvern, and beyond, on a journey to empower your little ones. Call 888-710-8220 for appointments and learn more about our clinic at https://mykidspediatric.com.

Together, let’s convert the colder months into a celebration of health and joy for our young ones, turning them into real-life superheroes!

Dr. Jeremy Porter is a pediatric physician seeing patients at My Kids Pediatric Clinic at the Hot Springs Central and Malvern Teeter Plaza locations. He speaks both English and Spanish. Call 888-710-8220 for appointments.

 

 

A Vital Conversation on HIV and Hepatitis C

Unlocking Wellness: A Vital Conversation on HIV and Hepatitis C Testing and Treatment

By Jennifer Scott, APRN
Family Nurse Practitioner
Healthy Connections

Jennifer Scott APRN

As a Family Nurse Practitioner at Healthy Connections, I want to discuss the crucial topics of HIV and Hepatitis C testing and treatment openly. In today’s landscape, where these viruses persist at concerning rates, many individuals remain unaware of their infection or hesitate to undergo testing. My mission is clear: to enlighten and motivate anyone at risk to seize control of their health by embracing testing and, if needed, commencing treatment promptly.

Breaking the Stigma: Accessible, Judgment-Free Testing

At Healthy Connections, we understand the fear and anxiety associated with an HIV or Hep C diagnosis. That’s why testing at our clinics is not only quick and convenient but also judgment-free. Patients are screened for Hep C and HIV through a standard blood test, ensuring that anyone who steps through our doors has the opportunity to know their status with dignity and privacy. We aim to discuss your results with compassion and care, providing support and guidance regardless of the outcome.

Guiding You to Wellness: Seamless Treatment Access and Support

For those who test positive for Hepatitis C, we provide a thorough treatment strategy that starts with further testing to assess how the virus has affected the liver. This allows us to tailor a treatment plan suited to the individual’s needs, typically involving an 8-week or 12-week course of medication. To ensure the success of the treatment, we schedule follow-up lab visits to evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy, offering a supportive and comprehensive care system throughout the treatment process.

Expertise Near You: Healthy Connections Locations and Specialists

With locations throughout Central and Western Arkansas, Healthy Connections is committed to offering accessible, high-quality care for HIV and Hepatitis C. Our team of specialists is dedicated to supporting you through your health journey, providing expert care, counseling, and continuous health monitoring. Call us at 888-710-8220 or find a location on our website.

Thriving Through Challenges: Empowering Patients to Live Vibrantly

Living with HIV or Hep C presents its unique challenges, but at Healthy Connections, we empower our patients to thrive. Through adherence to prescribed medications, regular health check-ups, and the adoption of healthy lifestyle habits, our patients can manage their conditions effectively. We also emphasize the importance of safer practices to prevent transmission and the benefits of connecting with supportive communities.

Urgent Call to Action: Get Tested Today for a Healthier Tomorrow

If you’re at risk for HIV or Hep C, don’t delay getting tested. Healthy Connections offers swift, compassionate testing services, ready to support you regardless of the outcome. Schedule your testing appointment by calling 888-710-8220 and take the first step towards securing your health. Our clinics accept Medicaid, Medicare, and most health insurance plans, and offer a sliding fee scale for qualifying uninsured patients, ensuring that everyone has access to vital testing and treatment services.

Your health and well-being are our highest priorities at Healthy Connections. Let us guide you towards a healthier and happier future. Together, we can tackle the challenges of HIV and Hepatitis C, empowering you to lead a vibrant, fulfilling life.

Jennifer Scott, APRN, is a Family Nurse Practitioner at the Healthy Connections Hot Springs Chippewa Clinic. Call 888-710-8220 to schedule your appointment and begin your journey to wellness.

OBGYN Moore Talks About Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

Healthy Connections’ Dr. Pittman Moore, OBGYN, recently appeared in The Sentinel-Record in Hot Springs to discuss National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and the importance of getting screenings done regularly.

See the story here.     Watch the video here.

Dr. Moore sees patients at several Healthy Connections locations throughout Arkansas.

He received his medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, where he completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2008. He is a Board Certified OB/GYN with an expertise in advanced pelvic surgery, urogynecology issues, and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BioTe).

His practice also offers the evaluation and treatment of urinary incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, menopause treatment, pelvic floor reconstructive surgery, and laparoscopic hysterectomy which offers shorter hospitalization, less pain, and quicker recovery. He also offers, in office, Co2 laser procedures for the treatment of multiple gynecologic issues.

He is a member of the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology, American Urological Society, American Institute of Minimally Invasive Surgery, International Society of Cosmetic Gynecology, and American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists.

Schedule appointments with Dr. Moore by calling 888-710-8220.

Inclement Weather Updates

Update: As of now, all clinics will attempt to open at 10 a.m. on Monday. We will continue to monitor weather conditions and could make further changes to the schedule. We will continue to keep this page updated as schedule changes arise. Thank you all for your continued support during the past week amidst various weather-related schedule adjustments. Feel free to reach out to us at 888-710-8220 for any questions or if you need clarification about your appointment. We appreciate your understanding.

 

ClinicMonday, Jan. 22Tuesday, Jan. 23
Arkadelphia10 am-6 pm8 am-6 pm
De Queen10 am-6 pm8 am-6 pm
Haskell10 am-5 pm8 am-5 pm
Hot Springs Central10 am-6 pm8 am-6 pm
Hot Springs Chippewa10 am-6 pm8 am-6 pm
Hot Springs McAuley10 am-6 pm8 am-6 pm
Hot Springs Village10 am-6 pm8 am-6 pm
Little Rock Midtown10 am-6 pm8 am-6 pm
Malvern Teeter Plaza10 am-6 pm8 am-6 pm
Malvern Pinnacle10:am-5 pm7:30 am-5 pm
Mena Health Park10 am-6 pm8 am-6 pm
Mount IdaRe-opening on Tuesday.8 am-6 pm
Russellville10 am-6 pm8 am-6 pm
West Central Health Clinic10 am-5 pm8 am-5 pm
SheridanTemporarily ClosedTemporarily Closed

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.