Investing In Healthy Smiles With Sealants

As we celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month coming in February, we are thrilled to unveil the details of our annual Polk County Sealant Project 2025 – a pivotal initiative in our ongoing commitment to promoting oral health among Mena’s youth.

The Polk County Sealant Project: A Community Health Initiative

Since its inception, the Polk County Sealant Project has stood as a beacon of preventive dental care in Mena. In collaboration with the University of Arkansas Fort Smith Hygiene School, this program aims to provide essential dental care to students in the Mena School District, Ouachita River School District, and the Cossatot River School District.

Why Dental Sealants Matter

Dental sealants, a proven preventive measure in dentistry since the 1960s, are thin, plastic coatings painted on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Extensive studies conducted by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research and others have demonstrated their efficacy and safety.

These invisible shields act as a barrier, blocking up to 80% of cavity-causing germs and food particles from the pits and grooves of the back teeth. This preventative measure not only safeguards children’s dental health but also contributes to significant long-term savings by averting future dental procedures.

National Children’s Dental Health Month Celebration

February, designated as National Children’s Dental Health Month, serves as a fitting backdrop for our Polk County Sealant Project. This month-long celebration underscores the importance of instilling good oral health habits in children and raises awareness about the significance of preventive dental care.

How to Participate in the Polk County Sealant Project 2025

This year’s project is tentatively scheduled for Thursday, February 20, and Thursday, February 27. However, please note that dates are subject to change based on demand. The tentative schedule designates specific schools for each day:

  • February 20: Wickes, Oden, Umpire, Van Cove, Acorn
  • February 27: Louise Durham, Holly Harshman, and Mena Middle School

To participate, parents and guardians are requested to complete the student/patient registration form, which will be sent home with students and needs to be returned by January 30, 2025. This form is crucial for your child’s screening and the application of sealants/fluoride at the Healthy Connections Mena clinic at 136 Health Park Lane.

Don’t Live in Polk County? No Problem!

If you reside outside Polk County, your child can still benefit from dental sealants at either our Mena or Hot Springs clinics. Simply call us at 888-710-8220, and we can work out the details. Appointments are available at your convenience, not limited to the specified project dates.

Comprehensive Dental Services at Healthy Connections

Beyond the Polk County Sealant Project, Healthy Connections extends its commitment to oral health through a range of dental services for all ages. With locations in Mena and Hot Springs, our dental programs cater to the diverse needs of our communities.

Fluoride Varnish Application

In addition to dental sealants, our program includes the application of fluoride varnish, a dental treatment designed to prevent tooth decay. This treatment is applied on the top and sides of teeth with a small brush, hardening upon contact with saliva.

Preventing Tooth Decay: More Than Just Sealants

While dental sealants are a powerful tool in preventing tooth decay, there are additional measures to consider. Alongside using fluoride toothpaste and drinking fluoridated water, maintaining a healthy diet and seeing your dentist regularly are effective ways to protect teeth from decay. Selecting a toothpaste containing fluoride and consulting with your dentist or pediatrician about water fluoridation are essential steps in maintaining your child’s dental health.

Join Us in Building a Healthier Polk County Together

We encourage you to share this information within your network, using #HealthySmilesMena on social media. For any inquiries or further information about our dental programs, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Thank you for joining us in this important community health initiative. At Healthy Connections, we believe in building a healthier Arkansas– one smile at a time.

December Employees of the Month

Healthy Connections Names December 2024 Employees of the Month

Healthy Connections has selected two exemplary employees as its December 2024 Employees of the Month: Len Green of the Little Rock Midtown and Russellville clinics, and Linda Hoobler of the Mena clinic. Each month, one employee from the East Communities and one from the West are chosen based on coworker nominations and evaluation by senior management. The three pillars of community, compassion, and excellence guide this selection process.

Len Green: East Communities

Len Green, a Clinical Territory Lead for the Little Rock Midtown and Russellville clinics, joined Healthy Connections in 2024. Coworkers praise her commitment to ensuring that both patients and staff have the resources they need, each day.
They also note that she “brings a positive outlook everywhere she goes and sets the bar high for great bedside manner.” Through her leadership and support, Len plays an essential role in promoting quality patient care and strengthening team collaboration.

Linda Hoobler: West Communities

Billing Manager Linda Hoobler has been with Healthy Connections since 2020 and serves the Mena clinic. Colleagues commend her ability to balance departmental objectives with a supportive approach to team well-being, citing that she “works very hard and tries to keep everyone happy.”
Linda’s readiness to learn new methods and assist wherever needed illustrates her commitment to building a cohesive work environment and delivering excellent service.

Embodying Community, Compassion, and Excellence

Healthy Connections is proud to acknowledge Len and Linda for their dedication to our mission. Their efforts contribute significantly to upholding our core values and ensuring that patients receive quality care every day. Congratulations to both honorees on this well-deserved recognition, and we look forward to their continued impact on our organization.

Inclement Weather Updates

Weather Update: Clinic Closures

Due to worsening weather and road conditions, all Healthy Connections clinics are now closed for the remainder of Thursday, January 9, and will remain closed on Friday, January 10.

We hope to reopen for normal hours at all locations on Monday, January 13, at 7:45 a.m.

For questions or assistance regarding your appointment, please call us at 888-710-8220.

Thank you for your understanding as we prioritize the safety of our patients and staff. Stay safe!

ClinicThursday, January 9Closed
ArkadelphiaClosed at 1:45 pmClosed
De QueenClosed at 11 a.m.Closed
HaskellClosed at 1 pmClosed
Hot Springs CentralClosed at 1 pmClosed
Hot Springs ChippewaClosed at 1 pmClosed
Hot Springs McAuleyClosed at 1 pmClosed
Hot Springs VillageClosed at 1:15 pmClosed
Little Rock MidtownClosed at 2:15 PMClosed
Malvern Teeter PlazaClosed at 1 pmClosed
Malvern PinnacleClosed at 1 pmClosed
MenaClosed at 11 a.m.Closed
Mount IdaClosed at 11 a.m.Closed
RussellvilleClosed at 1:30 pmClosed
TexarkanaClosed at 1:45 pmClosed
SheridanClosed at 2:30 pmClosed

Lindy Jumper Featured on THV11’s The Vine

 

 

Healthy Connections Family Nurse Practitioner Lindy Jumper, APRN, was a special guest on THV11’s The Vine at 9 program, where she shared insights about the exceptional care and services offered at Healthy Connections. Lindy, based at our Mena clinic, exemplifies the dedication and compassion that define our Community Health Network.

Call 888-710-8220 to schedule an appointment with Lindy at our Mena clinic or with any of our providers across Arkansas. Let Healthy Connections be your trusted partner in health!

2024 Clinic Holiday Schedule

As the holiday season approaches, Healthy Connections is committed to ensuring our patients receive the care they need while allowing our dedicated staff to enjoy time with their families. During the weeks of December, some of our clinic locations will observe adjusted schedules to accommodate the holidays. Please take note of these changes and plan your visits accordingly. Our team remains available to assist with any urgent needs and to answer questions about appointments or services during this time. Below, you’ll find a detailed schedule for each clinic, including holiday closures and adjusted hours.

ClinicMonday, Dec. 23Tuesday, Dec. 24Wednesday, Dec. 25
Thursday, Dec. 26Friday, Dec. 27Saturday, Dec. 28Sunday, Dec. 29Monday, Dec. 30Tuesday, Dec. 31Wednesday, Jan. 1Thursday, Jan. 2Friday, Jan. 3
Arkadelphia7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-4 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosed*Closed
BryantClosedClosedClosedClosedClosedClosedClosedClosedClosedClosedClosedClosed
De Queen7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-4 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pm
Haskell7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-4 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosed
Hot Springs Central7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-4 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pm
Hot Springs Chippewa7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-4 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pm
Hot Springs McAuley7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-4 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosed
Hot Springs Village7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosed*
Little Rock Midtown7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-4 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pm
Malvern Pinnacle7:45 am-6 pm8:00 am-5 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm8 am-12 pmClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm8 am-12 pm
Malvern Teeter Plaza7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-4 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pm
Mena7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-4 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pm
Mena Pharmacy8:00 am-6 pmClosedClosed8:00 am-6 pmClosedClosedClosed8:00 am-6 pmClosedClosed8 am-6 pmClosed
Mount Ida7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-4 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosed
Russellville
7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-4 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pm8 am-Noon
Sheridan7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-4 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosed
Texarkana7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-4 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosedClosedClosed7:45 am-6 pm7:45 am-6 pmClosed7:45 am-6 pmClosed

November Employees of the Month

Healthy Connections November Employees of the Month: Teressa Hughes and Lisa England

At Healthy Connections, we are proud to recognize two exceptional team members as our November Employees of the Month: Teressa Hughes from the Arkadelphia Clinic and Lisa England from Mena Street. These individuals exemplify the pillars of Community, Compassion, and Excellence that form the foundation of Healthy Connections’ philosophy. Each month, Employees of the Month are nominated by their peers and selected by senior management in recognition of their outstanding contributions.

Teressa Hughes – Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Arkadelphia Clinic

Since joining Healthy Connections in May 2023, Teressa Hughes has been a vital member of the Hot Springs Central Clinic team and currently serves at the Arkadelphia Clinic. Her colleagues describe her as a beacon of positivity and professionalism, sharing:
“Teressa shows up every day putting her best foot forward! She brings a smile and quality care to every patient every time! We are so thankful for Teressa!”

Teressa’s dedication to providing quality care and her unwavering kindness make her a model of excellence in patient care. Her ability to brighten the day for both patients and colleagues demonstrates her commitment to fostering a compassionate and welcoming environment.

Lisa England – Medical Records Lead, Mena Street

Lisa England, who joined Healthy Connections in January 2023, serves as the Medical Records Lead at Mena Street. Her colleagues highlight her reliability, kindness, and unwavering dedication:
“Lisa is the glue for HCI! She makes sure provider teams have what they need in the chart. She also makes sure that patients and outside sources get what they need timely and safely as well. She is dependable and always does for others before doing for herself. She is always kind and sets such a good example for others.”

Lisa’s attention to detail and selfless nature ensure that both patients and providers receive the support they need. Her role is critical in maintaining the seamless operations of Healthy Connections, and she consistently sets an example of excellence through her commitment to serving others.

Celebrating Excellence

As Employees of the Month, Teressa and Lisa will each receive a $50 credit to the HC Hub Company Store. Their dedication and service not only uphold the mission of Healthy Connections but also inspire their peers to continue striving for excellence.

We thank Teressa and Lisa for their hard work and congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition! Stay tuned for more updates on the incredible team members who make Healthy Connections a leader in compassionate and quality healthcare.