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.
Healthy Connections
Imagine waking up feeling energized, not exhausted. Imagine facing the day with a clear mind and sharp focus, instead of battling brain fog. Imagine finally getting a restful night’s sleep, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to conquer anything. If these scenarios seem like a distant dream, you’re not alone. Millions of women struggle with hormonal imbalances that can wreak havoc on their well-being, impacting their energy, mood, sleep, and overall health.
But there’s good news! At Healthy Connections, we offer a revolutionary approach to hormonal health: bioidentical hormone therapy. Unlike traditional methods that simply replace hormones, bioidentical hormone therapy takes a precision-based approach, mimicking your body’s natural rhythm with tiny, bioidentical hormone pellets inserted under the skin. This innovative method delivers stable hormone levels throughout the day, ensuring you experience the full benefits without the fluctuations common with other therapies.
Reclaim Your Energy and Zest for Life
Are you tired of feeling drained and sluggish? Does fatigue hold you back from enjoying your activities and living life to the fullest? Bioidentical hormone therapy can help you reclaim your energy and vitality. Say goodbye to the afternoon slump and experience sustained energy throughout the day. Imagine feeling motivated, focused, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way with renewed enthusiasm.
Sharpen Your Focus and Embrace Mental Clarity
Does brain fog leave you feeling forgetful, frustrated, and unable to concentrate? Bioidentical hormone therapy can help you reclaim your mental clarity. Imagine thinking clearly, remembering details easily, and feeling mentally sharp. Improved focus can enhance your productivity at work, enrich your relationships, and allow you to enjoy activities that require cognitive engagement.
Finally, Get the Restful Sleep You Deserve
Do you struggle to fall asleep or wake up feeling tired even after a full night’s rest? Bioidentical hormone therapy can help you regulate your sleep patterns and finally get the restful sleep you deserve. Imagine drifting off to sleep easily, waking up feeling refreshed and energized, and enjoying the myriad health benefits of quality sleep.
Tailored Support for Women
Whether you’re experiencing the challenges of perimenopause or menopause, or simply seeking to optimize your well-being, Bioidentical hormone therapy offers personalized solutions tailored specifically to women’s needs. Manage symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings naturally, without resorting to synthetic hormones. Achieve your unique goals and feel your best throughout every stage of life.
Beyond Mood, Sleep, and Energy
The benefits of Bioidentical hormone therapy extend far beyond improved mood, sleep, and energy. This innovative therapy can also:
- Strengthen your bones: Reduce your risk of osteoporosis and experience improved bone density.
- Boost your heart health: Enjoy better blood flow and a reduced risk of certain heart-related issues.
- Promote weight management: Achieve a healthy weight more easily with improved metabolic function.
- Enhance your libido: Experience a renewed zest for intimacy and enjoy a more fulfilling relationship.
Don’t Let Hormonal Imbalance Hold You Back
You deserve to feel your best, both physically and emotionally. Don’t let hormonal imbalances hold you back from living a vibrant and fulfilling life. At Healthy Connections, our dedicated team of compassionate and experienced providers is here to guide you through the Biote journey. We understand your concerns and will address them openly and honestly. We’ll answer your questions, ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals.
Take the First Step Towards a Healthier, Happier You
Contact Healthy Connections today to schedule a consultation and learn more about bioidentical hormone therapy. Let us help you reclaim your energy, clarity, and vitality and experience the transformative power of a balanced hormonal system. We have convenient locations throughout Arkansas, staffed by amazing providers who are passionate about helping women achieve optimal well-being.
Remember, you’re not alone. We’re here to support you on your journey to a healthier, happier you. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask us anything!
Call us at (888) 710-8220 or visit www.healthy-connections.org to schedule your consultation today.
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.
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.”
As we approach the festive season, we want to ensure you have all the information you need about Healthy Connections’ clinic schedule. Please note the following schedule, and check back here for any updates:
📅 Holiday Clinic Schedule:
| Clinic | Friday, Dec. 22 | Dec. 23, 24, & 25 | Tuesday, Dec. 26 | Wednesday, Dec. 27 | Thursday, Dec. 28 | Friday, Dec. 29 | Dec. 30, 31 & Jan. 1 | Tuesday, Jan. 2 |
| Arkadelphia | Closed | Closed | Closed | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am- 6 pm | Closed | Closed | 8 am-6 pm |
| De Queen | 8 am-6 pm | Closed | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6pm | 8 am-6 pm | Closed | 8 am-6 pm |
| Haskell | 8 am-Noon | Closed | 7:30 am-5 pm | 7:30 am-5 pm | 7:30 am-5 pm | 8 am-12 pm | Closed | 7:30 am-5 pm |
| Hot Springs Central | 8 am-6 pm | Closed | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | Closed | 8 am-6 pm |
| Hot Springs Chippewa | 8 am-6 pm | Closed | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | Closed | Closed | 8 am - 6 pm |
| Hot Springs McAuley | Closed | Closed | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | Closed | Closed | 8 am-6 pm |
| Hot Springs Village | Closed | Closed | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | Closed | Closed | 8 am-6 pm |
| Little Rock Midtown | 8 am-6 pm | Closed | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | Closed | Closed | 8 am-6 pm |
| Malvern Teeter Plaza | Closed | Closed | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | Closed | Closed | 8 am-6 pm |
| Malvern Pinnacle | 8 am-Noon | Closed | 7:30 am-5 pm | 7:30 am-5 pm | 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. | Closed | Closed | 7:30 am-5 pm |
| Mena Health Park | 8 a.m.-6 p.m. | Closed | 8 am- 6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | Closed | 8 am-6 pm |
| Mount Ida | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed |
| Russellville | Closed | Closed | 8 am-6 pm | 8 am-6 pm | Closed | Closed | Closed | 8 am-6 pm |
| West Central Health Clinic | 8 am-12 pm | Closed | 7:30 am-5 pm | 7:30 am-5 pm | 7:30 am-5 pm | 8 am-12 pm | Closed | 7:30 am-5 pm |
| Sheridan | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed | Temporarily Closed |
For any additional updates, please call our dedicated line at 888-710-8220. We recommend checking back here for the latest information as it becomes available.
As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we want to express our deepest gratitude for allowing us to be a part of your health journey. Wishing each and every one of our patients joyous holidays and a happy, healthy New Year!
Congratulations to Kim Carson and Laci Sims – November 2023 Employees of the Month!
We are thrilled to announce that Kim Cars
on from West Communities and Laci Sims from East Communities have been selected as the November 2023 Healthy Connections Employees of the Month.
Kim, a Lead Patient Care Coordinator based in Mena, showcases an outstanding commitment to her role. Colleagues commend her for going above and beyond to assist everyone, regardless of their department. Her infectious positive attitude and diligent work, always accompanied by a smile, make her an invaluable asset to the team.
Laci, a Medical Assistant traveling with the team of Dr. Pittman Moore, has been recognized for her tireless efforts in securing insurance coverage and ensuring smooth coordination of surgeries. Colleagues appreciate her accessibility, willingness to answer questions, and her medical background, which aids in effectively communicating results and explaining procedures conducted by Dr. Moore.
Kim and Laci embody the core values of Healthy Connections – Community, Compassion, and Excellence. As a token of appreciation, each will receive a $50 gift card to the HC-Hub Company Store.
Do you know someone who deserves recognition? Nominate them on the HC-Hub Intranet for a chance to be the next Employee of the Month!
Thank you, Kim and Laci, for your dedication to the Healthy Connections community. Your commitment to excellence is truly commendable!
