Evolve Behavioral Health Services
Healthy Connections
My Kids Pediatric Clinic

CALL US: 888.710.8220

Evolve Behavioral Health Services
Healthy Connections
My Kids Pediatric Clinic

CALL US: 888.710.8220

HIV Specialist Dr. Sharon Meador Joins LR Midtown Clinic

Healthy Connections is thrilled to introduce the newest member of our esteemed team, Sharon Meador, MD, who joins the Little Rock Midtown Clinic.

With an illustrious career spanning more than 40 years as an occupational medicine physician, Dr. Meador brings an unparalleled level of expertise and dedication to the clinic, aligning perfectly with our core values of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.

Dr. Meador’s qualifications extend far beyond the ordinary. She is a certified HIV Specialist recognized by the American Academy of HIV Medicine (AAHIVM), a distinction that highlights her unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional care in HIV prevention and treatment. Her achievement places her in an exclusive league of healthcare professionals devoted to ensuring the optimal health of those living with or at risk for HIV and related conditions.

“When I first saw and treated people with HIV, it was AIDS. We didn’t know what it even was, and it was a death sentence essentially. But the current treatments are wonderful, and the issues we’re seeing now with our folks living with HIV is they live so long, they get old people diseases like the rest of us, which is a great problem to have,” Dr. Meador said.

The clinic location at 1100 N. University Ave., #200, in Little Rock, features the Healthy Connections Community Health Network, Health For Life Clinic, Evolve Behavioral Health Services and Medication Management, and Noydeen Midtown.

Dr. Meador will see patients for Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), HIV, and PrEP.

“We are exceptionally proud to have Dr. Sharon Meador join our team. Her certification as an HIV Specialist by AAHIVM underscores her dedication to providing top-tier care,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc. “Her arrival marks a remarkable milestone for the Healthy Connections Little Rock Midtown Clinic.”

With Dr. Terry Jefferson and Dr. Absalom H. Tilley, the Healthy Connections Little Rock Midtown clinic is among the most experienced in central Arkansas in providing inclusive care for both the LGBTQ+ community and those seeking treatment for opioid addiction. This collaborative environment ensures patients receive comprehensive, top-quality medical services in an inclusive environment.

“Over the years, I’ve treated people living with HIV, transgender community folks, and people with substance abuse orders of all sorts,” Dr. Meador said. “That’s kind of my niche where I’m practicing now, and I love doing that.”

Healthy Connections is a Mena-based Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with locations throughout Central and Western Arkansas. The Community Health Network offers much-needed medical, dental, and behavioral health services and attempts to fill healthcare coverage gaps. The clinics accept Medicaid, ArKids 1st, Medicare, and most health insurance. There is also a sliding fee scale for patients without insurance who qualify.

“Especially in the Ryan White Program, patients don’t have other insurance. We try to take care of a lot of those needs without having to refer them to multiple places. Healthy Connections does that and it’s perfect,” Dr. Meador said.

Join us in celebrating the arrival of Dr. Sharon Meador, a distinguished addition to the healthcare landscape of Little Rock. For appointments or more information, please visit our website at www.healthy-connections.org or call us at 888-710-8220. Together, we look forward to serving the diverse healthcare needs of our community with excellence and compassion.

HCI Congratulates CFO Susan Singleton

Healthy Connections Congratulates Susan Singleton, Finalist for Arkansas Business Nonprofit CFO of the Year 2023

Healthy Connections, a leading Federally-Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Western and Central Arkansas, extends its congratulations to Susan Singleton, Chief Financial Officer, for her outstanding achievement as a finalist for the prestigious Arkansas Business Nonprofit Organization CFO of the Year 2023 award.

Singleton’s impressive 26-year career and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on Healthy Connections and the healthcare community. Her financial leadership has been instrumental in the organization’s growth and its continued commitment to the core values of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.

“The healthcare industry, especially in the not-for-profit world, isn’t always just about budgets and numbers. It’s about the caring and the hope that we instill in the patients we see. The one person who has been dedicated and committed to doing just that is Susan Singleton. We are very proud of her nomination for this prestigious award,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc.

Singleton’s journey is a testament to personal and professional growth, where she has skillfully managed finances and operations, driving improvements in workflows, processes, and operational efficiencies, ultimately better positioning Healthy Connections to balance its mission and margin.

“Susan embodies an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. Her approach to financial management has elevated our ability to fulfill our mission, offering quality healthcare services to those we serve,” Calandro said.

Healthy Connections remains committed to its mission of providing accessible, high-quality healthcare services to individuals and families across Western and Central Arkansas.

Call 888-710-8220 for appointments and visit https://healthy-connections.org for more information.

About Healthy Connections: Healthy Connections is a Federally-Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with a 25-year history of providing quality medical, dental, and behavioral health services to communities in Western and Central Arkansas. The organization is guided by the principles of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.

Larner Named Evolve BHS Director

Heath Larner, LPC, has been appointed as the Director of Integrated Behavioral Health Services at Evolve Behavioral Health Services, a vital component of the Healthy Connections Community Health Network. This announcement underscores Heath’s dedication to the three core pillars of Healthy Connections: Community, Compassion, and Excellence.

Larner’s career trajectory is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the field of mental health. He began his journey with a psychology degree from the University of Central Florida and explored diverse professional avenues, including running his cleaning business. However, his true calling beckoned, leading him to pursue a career in therapy.

In 2022, Larner transitioned to Evolve Behavioral Health Services, enriching the team with his extensive experience and unique perspective.

Heath’s professional journey took an unconventional path as he embarked on graduate studies at Central Arkansas at the age of 37. By the age of 40, he had earned his degree, embarking on a fulfilling career as a therapist. His distinctive life experience equips him with a remarkable outlook when helping individuals on their mental health journeys.

Larner’s therapeutic approach embraces individuals of various age groups, with a particular affinity for those old enough to engage in cognitive processes, starting from age 9 and beyond. He employs cognitive behavioral therapy as his primary therapeutic modality, complemented by insights drawn from his background as a preacher. This holistic approach fosters compassion and facilitates healing.

“I’m really big on what we think we’ve become. I spend a lot of time trying to get people to think the right way about themselves, about others, about life in general,” Larner said. “And as we improve our thoughts and our thoughts get healthier, our perspective gets healthier.”

Evolve Behavioral Health Services plays a crucial role within the Healthy Connections Community Health Network, collaborating seamlessly with other healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive care. This partnership allows Evolve to provide individual, family, and group mental health therapy, in addition to medication management by Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP), all within the state of Arkansas.

“Heath’s dedication to improving mental health aligns perfectly with the mission of Evolve and Healthy Connections,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc. “We are proud to have him as part of our team and look forward to the positive impact he will continue to make in our community.”

To learn more about Evolve Behavioral Health Services, please visit their website at www.evolvebhs.com. Individuals seeking mental health support are encouraged to reach out without hesitation. Appointments with Evolve can be scheduled by calling 800-409-6250.

Evolve Behavioral Health Services and Healthy Connections share a common vision—to promote mental well-being and improve the lives of individuals in our community. Their partnership strengthens their ability to provide the highest quality of care, reflecting their dedication to a healthier and happier society.

About Heath Larner, LPC

Heath Larner, LPC, is the Director of Integrated Behavioral Health Services at Evolve Behavioral Health Services, part of the Healthy Connections Community Health Network. With a unique journey to the field of mental health, Heath is dedicated to helping individuals achieve mental well-being through cognitive behavioral therapy and compassionate care.

About Evolve Behavioral Health Services

Evolve Behavioral Health Services is committed to delivering comprehensive mental health therapy and medication management within the Healthy Connections Community Health Network. Their mission is rooted in the values of Community, Compassion, and Excellence, providing individuals with the tools to lead healthier and happier lives.

About Healthy Connections Community Health Network

Healthy Connections Community Health Network is a Federally-Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with locations throughout Western and Central Arkansas. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Healthy Connections offers quality medical, dental, and behavioral health services, anchored in the principles of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.

Your Guide to Flu Shots: Stay Healthy with Healthy Connections

In the battle against the flu, taking the right steps can mean the difference between a mild inconvenience and a severe, even life-threatening illness. One of the most crucial steps you can take to protect yourself and your community is to get vaccinated annually.

Here at Healthy Connections, we understand the importance of this preventive measure, and we’re dedicated to making it accessible to everyone. Our Community Health Network clinics across Arkansas are proud to offer flu shots, and we strive to ensure that cost is not a barrier to your health. The flu vaccine is free with most health insurance. We accept various forms of coverage, including Medicaid, ARKids 1st, Medicare, and most insurance plans. For those without insurance, we are making the vaccine accessible for just $35.

So, why should you choose Healthy Connections for your flu shot?

  • Firstly, our experienced nurses administer the vaccine safely and effectively. Your health is in capable hands.
  • Secondly, we understand that life can get busy. That’s why we offer convenient appointments designed to fit your schedule, including evening slots at select locations.
  • Lastly, our commitment to affordable, high-quality care is unwavering. We believe that everyone deserves access to the best healthcare, regardless of their financial situation.

This year, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of the flu shot is magnified. Both the flu and COVID-19 share respiratory symptoms, and vaccination reduces your risk of contracting and spreading these illnesses.

In addition to COVID-19 concerns, consider these factors:

  • Experts anticipate a more severe flu season.
  • Some flu strains may be less responsive to the vaccine.
  • Vaccination significantly lowers the risk of complications such as pneumonia.
  • It provides protection for vulnerable populations, including young children, older adults, and individuals with chronic health conditions.

If you have any questions about the flu vaccine, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider. Ready to take the first step toward a healthier you? Call us at 888-710-8220 to schedule your appointment today.

Your health is our priority, and we’re here to keep you safe and well.

Bauer, Mendez Named August Employees of Month

At Healthy Connections, we take pride in recognizing the hard work and dedication of our exceptional team members who go above and beyond to embody our core values of Community, Compassion, and Excellence. We are thrilled to announce the Employees of the Month for August 2023, who have truly exemplified these pillars in their service to our patients and communities.

East Communities Winner: Tonya Bauer – Registered Nurse (RN)

Tonya Bauer, an outstanding Registered Nurse (RN), has been selected as the Employee of the Month for our East Communities region. Tonya works closely with women’s health specialist, Dr. Pittman Moore, and her dedication to patient care and support has not gone unnoticed.

In the nomination, it was stated, “Tonya is a great nurse! She is hardworking and dependable. She is Dr. Moore’s primary support staff but will quickly assist others in need. We are so thankful for Tonya!”

Tonya’s commitment to her patients and her willingness to assist her colleagues make her a true asset to our team.

West Communities Winner: Liz Mendez – Interpreter

In our West Communities region, we are proud to announce Liz Mendez as the Employee of the Month. Liz serves as an interpreter at our Mena location and has consistently demonstrated her dedication to patient care and support.

The nomination for Liz praised her dedication, stating, “Liz strives to make sure she does the best she can to help her patients receive the care they need. She also helps in any way she can at both front and back desks, she makes sure that her coworkers understand the tasks that are set in front of them and tries to make their job easier with her knowledge and tips.”

Liz’s commitment to helping both patients and colleagues reflects the essence of Healthy Connections’ values.

These two employees were chosen as winners for the month of August based on their embodiment of the three pillars of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.

We encourage you to nominate the next potential winner for September by visiting our website at www.healthy-connections.org/nominate. Your nominations help us recognize and appreciate the incredible individuals who make a difference in the lives of our patients and the communities we serve.

Congratulations to Tonya Bauer and Liz Mendez for their outstanding contributions to Healthy Connections and thank you to all our team members for their unwavering commitment to providing quality medical, dental, and behavioral health services. Together, we continue to make a positive impact on the well-being of our communities.

 

Singleton Finalist For State CFO of Year

Healthy Connections’ Susan Singleton was named a finalist for Arkansas Business Nonprofit CFO of the Year

In the world of financial leadership, Susan Singleton’s journey stands as a testament to dedication and innovation. With an impressive career spanning 26 years, Singleton’s role as Chief Financial Officer of Healthy Connections, a Federally-Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Western and Central Arkansas, has earned her a coveted place as a finalist for the prestigious Arkansas Business Nonprofit Organization CFO of the Year 2023 award.

Singleton’s recognition is a result of her outstanding contributions. She stands alongside other distinguished financial leaders: Laine Harber from the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, Monique L. Sanders from the Arkansas Foodbank, and Britney Snell from the SHARE Foundation. Together, these exceptional individuals have set themselves apart and distinguished themselves among their peers in contention for this statewide accolade.

The winners of the Arkansas Business CFO of the Year 2023 award will be unveiled on Nov. 2 at the Wally Allen Ballroom at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock.

Singleton’s journey is a story of personal and professional growth. Over the past 4 years, she has made a significant impact at Healthy Connections, steering its financial growth while upholding the organization’s core values of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.

“In a nonprofit organization, there are many opportunities to step out of your comfort zone, grow, and learn,” Singleton reflects. “CFOs must be creative and strategic in managing finances. As a CFO with additional responsibilities in operations, opportunities exist for improvements in workflows, processes, and operational efficiencies throughout the organization. This, in turn, better positions the company to balance the mission and margin of the organization.”

Her strategic financial stewardship has not only driven Healthy Connections’ growth but also allowed the organization to provide comprehensive healthcare services to diverse communities, making a lasting impact on countless lives.

“With over two and a half decades of financial leadership experience and her dedicated 4-year journey with Healthy Connections, Susan embodies an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections. “Her approach to financial management has elevated our ability to fulfill our mission, offering quality healthcare services to those we serve.”

Singleton’s journey underscores the pivotal role of financial leadership in fostering growth and positive change. Her expertise and steadfast commitment play a crucial role in advancing Healthy Connections’ ongoing mission of providing accessible, high-quality healthcare services that enhance the health and well-being of individuals and families across Western and Central Arkansas.