Welcome to Horizons, the official blog of Healthy Connections, where “Your Health. Our Experts.” is not just a tagline—it’s our commitment to you. As we continue to celebrate more than 25 years of serving the communities of Western and Central Arkansas, we’re excited to launch a platform that brings you closer to the wealth of knowledge our health professionals hold. Horizons is found at https://healthy-connections.org/horizons, your new go-to resource for health tips, advice, and information.
At Healthy Connections, we understand that navigating the world of health and wellness can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created Horizons—a space where our expert providers, including doctors, APRNs, PAs, dentists, hygienists, therapists, and more, share their insights, experiences, and advice to empower you on your health journey.
What You Can Expect from Horizons
- Expert Advice: Our blog features content written by our diverse team of healthcare providers. From the latest OBGYN tips to effective exercise routines, from dental care best practices to mental health support, our experts cover a wide range of topics to ensure your health needs are met.
- Practical Health Tips: Horizons is designed to offer practical, actionable advice that you can incorporate into your daily life. Whether it’s strategies for managing stress, nutritional guidance, or preventive care measures, our goal is to help you live a healthier, happier life.
- Latest Health News and Research: Stay informed with the latest health news and research explained in clear, understandable language. Our providers break down complex medical information into digestible insights, keeping you informed and engaged with the newest developments in healthcare.
Join Us on the Journey
As part of our philosophy built on Community, Compassion, and Excellence, we believe that informed patients make empowered patients. Horizons is more than just a blog; it’s a reflection of our dedication to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.
We invite you to explore Horizons, bookmark our page, and join us as we embark on this new chapter. Together, let’s create a future where health and wellness are accessible to all, supported by the knowledge and expertise of Healthy Connections’ trusted providers.
Visit us today at https://healthy-connections.org/horizons and take the first step towards a healthier tomorrow. Your health. Our experts. Your journey to wellness starts here.
Healthy Connections is pleased to announce the reopening of the Montgomery County Community Clinic (MCCC) in Mount Ida
Leslie Ward MD
We are thrilled to be back, ready to serve the people of Montgomery County with exceptional care and a focus on your unique healthcare needs.
Appointments are being accepted at the Mount Ida clinic (534 Luzerne St.) beginning Tuesday, January 23, 2024.
Your Care, Your Way
Introducing HealthFlex appointment scheduling, we empower you to take control of your healthcare journey. Choose from flexible options such as:
- In-Clinic Appointments: Schedule face-to-face visits at our Mount Ida clinic.
- Telehealth Appointments: Access healthcare from anywhere through secure telehealth appointments.
- Hybrid Appointments: Combine in-clinic visits with the flexibility of telehealth, ensuring your care, your way.
Marty Hearyman MD
Meet Our Exceptional Providers
Quality Healthcare, Accessible to All
The Mount Ida clinic continues to accept Medicaid, ARKids 1st, Medicare, and most health insurance plans. Additionally, our sliding fee scale is available, providing financial flexibility for those without insurance.
“We are excited to be back, serving the people of Montgomery County. We have worked hard over the past few months to ensure we would continue our long tenure of providing care for Mount Ida,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc.
Take Control of Your Health – Schedule Your Appointment
To schedule an appointment or inquire about our services, call 888-710-8220 or request appointments at https://healthy-connections.org/appointment. Our dedicated team is ready to assist with any questions or concerns.
As the doors of the Mount Ida clinic open once again, Healthy Connections looks forward to the privilege of providing outstanding care to the community, one personalized appointment at a time.
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.
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!
Director of Practice Management Recognized for Outstanding Dedication and Versatility
Healthy Connections is proud to announce Andrea Wright as the 2023 Employee of the Year. As the Director of Practice Management, Andrea has displayed exceptional dedication, versatility, and an unwavering commitment to the organization’s core values of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.
Andrea’s journey with Healthy Connections began in 2013 when she joined as a Patient Care Coordinator (PCC). Over the years, she has steadily climbed the ranks, showcasing her passion for the community and commitment to delivering quality healthcare services. Today, as the Director of Practice Management, Andrea plays a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless operation of our clinics.
Her ability to handle a diverse range of responsibilities with grace and proficiency sets her apart. Despite her demanding role, Andrea has consistently gone above and beyond, taking on additional tasks and responsibilities without hesitation. Her work ethic and positive attitude have made her an indispensable member of the Healthy Connections family.
One notable achievement is Andrea’s instrumental role in the reorganization of the Dental department. Despite limited prior knowledge of this specialty, Andrea fearlessly embraced the challenge, dedicating countless hours to understanding and improving the department’s operations. Her proactive approach and determination have significantly contributed to the enhancement of dental services provided by Healthy Connections.
“Andrea’s dedication and willingness to take on any challenge have made a lasting impact on our organization,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc. ‘This recognition is well-deserved, and we are fortunate to have Andrea as a leader in our team.”
Exceptional Providers Recognized for Outstanding Contributions to Healthcare Excellence
Healthy Connections proudly announces Dr. Patrick Fox and Zachary Geiling, APRN, as the Providers of the Year for 2023. Both esteemed healthcare professionals have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their patients and have played integral roles in the success and growth of their respective clinics.
Dr. Patrick Fox: A Leading Force in Primary Care
Dr. Patrick Fox, a Primary Care/Family Medicine Physician based at the Mena clinic, rejoined Healthy Connections in 2023 for his second stint with the organization. Dr. Fox is renowned as one of the top providers in the region, and his patients followed him back to Healthy Connections, a testament to the trust and confidence they have in his care.
Consistently earning 5-star reviews, Dr. Fox has achieved a remarkable 4.9 star average on Google, a 4.9 star average on Birdeye, and a perfect 5.0 star rating on WebMD. His commitment to excellence and the well-being of his patients has set a high standard for healthcare provision at Healthy Connections.
“Dr. Fox’s return to Healthy Connections has been a tremendous asset to our organization. His reputation for delivering exceptional care and his consistently outstanding reviews reflect his dedication to the highest standards of healthcare. We are proud to name him Provider of the Year for 2023,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc.
Zachary Geiling, APRN: Driving Growth and Excellence in Hot Springs Village
Zachary Geiling, APRN, a family nurse practitioner based at the Hot Springs Village clinic, has been instrumental in the growth of the clinic since its inception in 2022. Under his guidance, the clinic has flourished from a modest start to a bustling center of healthcare excellence.
Patients consistently express their appreciation for the exceptional care provided by Zach. In 2023, he was honored as the Medical Provider of the Year by the readers of the Hot Springs Village Voice, further highlighting his impact on the local community. Zach consistently earns 5-star ratings, boasting a perfect 5.0 star rating on Google and Birdeye.
“Zach’s commitment to patient care and his role in the remarkable growth of our Hot Springs Village clinic make him truly deserving of the Provider of the Year recognition,” Calandro said. “His dedication and positive impact on the community align with Healthy Connections’ values, and we are grateful to have him on our team.”
The Provider of the Year awards were presented to Dr. Patrick Fox and Zachary Geiling at the annual Christmas parties held in December, celebrating their outstanding contributions to healthcare excellence at Healthy Connections.
