Get Covered This Open Enrollment: Healthy Connections is Here to Help with Medicaid Applications in Arkansas
The Medicaid Open Enrollment period in Arkansas is here, providing a crucial opportunity for uninsured residents to gain access to affordable healthcare coverage. This period runs from November 1 through January 15. For coverage starting January 1, applications should be submitted by December 15. Healthy Connections is ready to support both new and current patients throughout the application process to ensure access to high-quality, affordable care.
Through the Inflation Reduction Act, many people who apply for health coverage may qualify for significant financial assistance, lowering monthly premiums for Marketplace plans. At HealthCare.gov, 4 out of 5 applicants find plans for $10 per month or less, making this an ideal time to secure comprehensive health insurance. Coverage through Medicaid and the Marketplace includes a wide range of services, from routine check-ups and preventive care to emergency services, prescription drugs, and behavioral health care.
Healthy Connections accepts Medicaid at all our clinic locations throughout Western and Central Arkansas, offering essential medical, dental, and behavioral health services to all eligible patients. Our certified application counselors, also known as Assisters, offer free guidance and are here to help you complete your application and review your options.
How to Connect with a Medicaid Assister at Healthy Connections
If you’re interested in applying for Medicaid, Healthy Connections makes it easy to get started. Our financial counselors are certified by the state to guide patients through each step of enrollment. Here’s how to connect with one of our Assisters:
- Call Healthy Connections – Dial 888-710-8220 and ask for extensions 121 or 428. If our Assisters are unavailable, please leave a voicemail; they will return your call the following day.
- Get Step-by-Step Assistance – Our Assisters can answer your questions, guide you through the process, and ensure your application is complete and submitted successfully. This assistance is available to both new and current patients, including those who may have recently lost insurance.
- Medicaid and CHIP Enrollment Available Year-Round – Even outside of the Marketplace Open Enrollment window, Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) accept applications at any time of the year. Our Assisters can also assist with these programs for qualifying families.
Why Apply for Medicaid?
Medicaid provides access to critical healthcare services, from routine check-ups to specialized care. At Healthy Connections, we accept Medicaid for all eligible services, including primary care, behavioral health, dental services, and more. Our clinic network also offers extended hours to make healthcare accessible for your schedule.
The Medicaid Open Enrollment period won’t last long, so act today. With immediate openings at Healthy Connections clinics, now is the perfect time to secure the coverage you need to access quality care. If you or someone you know is uninsured or in need of healthcare, contact Healthy Connections and take the first step toward better health and well-being.
Call Healthy Connections at 888-710-8220 (extensions 121 or 428) to connect with an Assister and start your Medicaid application today.
Election Season Stress and Anxiety: Tips from Evolve Behavioral Health to Keep Calm and Connected
Election seasons can be intense and emotional. With the 2024 election just around the corner on November 4, many people are feeling heightened levels of stress and anxiety. Some worry that their preferred candidate might not win; others may be feeling tension in personal relationships due to differing views. And with close races or delayed results, we might not even know the winner immediately on election night. These are common concerns, and at Evolve Behavioral Health, we’re here to help you manage the anxiety that can come with this season. Below, our behavioral health experts share practical ways to stay grounded and connected.
1. Acknowledge Your Emotions, Whatever They Are
It’s okay to feel anxious, frustrated, or even angry. Suppressing these feelings often only amplifies them. Instead, allow yourself to acknowledge and accept them without judgment. Journaling, for example, can be a helpful tool for processing emotions. Write down what you’re feeling and identify any physical sensations associated with your emotions—tense shoulders, tight chest, etc. This practice can help you bring awareness to your feelings and manage them more effectively.
2. Limit Your News and Social Media Consumption
The news cycle can be relentless during an election, and constant exposure can heighten anxiety and stress. Set boundaries around when and how often you check for updates. Consider scheduling specific times during the day to catch up on election news, or limit yourself to trusted news sources. Turning off push notifications or using screen-time limits on social media can also reduce the pressure to stay constantly informed. Remember, it’s okay not to be online 24/7.
3. Practice Deep Breathing and Mindfulness Exercises
Simple techniques like deep breathing and mindfulness exercises can help reduce stress and anxiety. Our therapists at Evolve Behavioral Health often recommend the “4-7-8” breathing method: inhale for 4 seconds, hold the breath for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds. Repeat this cycle a few times when feeling anxious or overwhelmed. Mindfulness practices, such as focusing on the present moment or taking a walk in nature, can also help you reconnect with calmness and clarity.
4. Focus on What You Can Control
Election outcomes are beyond our individual control, and stressing over these unknowns can feel overwhelming. Instead, direct your energy toward things you can manage. This might mean organizing your daily routine, volunteering, engaging in a creative hobby, or making time for physical exercise. When you focus on what you can control, you reduce feelings of helplessness and gain a sense of agency, which can improve your mood and resilience.
5. Set Boundaries with Friends and Family
Discussing politics with friends and family who hold differing views can be challenging. If you find these conversations heighten your stress or negatively impact your relationships, it’s okay to set boundaries. You might say, “I’d prefer to talk about something else today,” or establish ground rules for respectful dialogue. Remember, it’s perfectly fine to take a break from these conversations to preserve your mental well-being.
6. Create a Plan for Election Night (and the Days That Follow)
For some, election night can bring a rollercoaster of emotions, especially if results are uncertain or delayed. Make a plan for how you’ll spend that evening. Whether watching the coverage with friends or focusing on an unrelated activity, having a plan can provide structure and help reduce stress. If delayed results make it difficult to relax, set up enjoyable activities in the following days as well, giving yourself time to process the news at your own pace.
7. Seek Support if You Need It
If you’re finding it difficult to manage election-related stress, reaching out for support can make a difference. Talking with a behavioral health therapist can provide perspective and coping strategies tailored to your needs. At Evolve Behavioral Health, we specialize in helping individuals navigate stress, anxiety, and interpersonal challenges. Whether it’s anxiety about the election or managing personal relationships, our team of licensed therapists can help.
How Evolve Behavioral Health Can Help
Evolve Behavioral Health offers a range of mental health services to support you during stressful times. Our team includes expert therapists trained in various evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage stress and anxiety. We understand that each person’s experience is unique, and we’re here to help you find healthy ways to cope. If you need to talk, call us at 800-409-6250 or visit www.evolvebhs.com to learn more about our services.
Final Thoughts
Election seasons are intense, but you don’t have to navigate these feelings alone. Remember, it’s normal to feel a range of emotions during this time, and there are steps you can take to manage stress. By acknowledging your feelings, setting healthy boundaries, and reaching out for support when needed, you can protect your mental well-being. If you or a loved one needs assistance, the professionals at Evolve Behavioral Health are here to support you. We’re committed to helping our community find calm in times of uncertainty, offering expert guidance and a compassionate space to process emotions.
For further support, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our therapists are available to provide the help you need to manage election-related stress and beyond.
Top Halloween Safety Tips for a Fun and Spooky Night: Keep Your Little Ghouls Safe
Halloween is an exciting time for children and parents alike—a night filled with costumes, candy, and spooky adventures. As we enter Halloween week, it’s essential to ensure that the festivities remain safe and enjoyable for everyone. At My Kids Pediatrics Clinic, with locations in Hot Springs, Malvern, Arkadelphia, and Hot Springs Village, we are committed to the health and safety of your children. Remember, we see children at all our clinic locations, and our pediatric experts are here to provide you with practical Halloween safety tips that go beyond the obvious.
1. Choose Safe and Comfortable Costumes
Selecting the right costume is crucial for a safe Halloween night:
- Opt for Flame-Resistant Materials: Choose costumes made from flame-resistant fabrics to reduce fire hazards near open flames like candles and jack-o’-lanterns.
- Ensure Proper Fit: Ill-fitting costumes can cause trips and falls. Make sure costumes and shoes fit well and are comfortable for walking.
- Avoid Obstructive Masks: Masks can limit vision and breathing. Use non-toxic face paint or makeup instead.
- Test Makeup First: Apply a small amount on your child’s skin beforehand to check for allergic reactions.
2. Enhance Visibility in the Dark
Visibility is key to keeping your child safe after dusk:
- Add Reflective Elements: Attach reflective tape or stickers to costumes and treat bags to make your child more visible to drivers.
- Carry Light Sources: Equip your child with a flashlight or glow sticks to illuminate their path and make them more noticeable.
- Choose Bright Colors: If possible, select costumes in lighter or brighter colors.
3. Safe Trick-or-Treating Practices
Ensure your child knows how to navigate the neighborhood safely:
- Plan a Route in Advance: Stick to well-lit, familiar areas and establish a route beforehand.
- Adult Supervision: Children under 12 should be accompanied by an adult. Older kids should travel in groups and have a set curfew.
- Obey Traffic Rules: Cross streets at corners using traffic signals and crosswalks. Teach children to look both ways before crossing.
- Stay on Sidewalks: Walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.
4. Inspect Treats Before Indulging
Not all treats are safe:
- Examine All Candy: Check for signs of tampering, such as unusual appearance, discoloration, or tiny holes in wrappers.
- Be Allergy Aware: Remove any treats that may contain allergens if your child has food allergies.
- Homemade Treat Caution: Discard homemade treats unless you know the person who provided them.
5. Home Safety for Trick-or-Treaters
If you’re welcoming trick-or-treaters to your home:
- Clear Pathways: Remove obstacles like garden hoses, toys, or decorations that could cause trips.
- Provide Ample Lighting: Ensure your home’s exterior is well-lit to prevent accidents.
- Secure Pets: Keep pets restrained to prevent them from jumping on or biting visitors.
- Use Safe Decorations: Opt for battery-operated candles instead of real flames in pumpkins.
6. Stay Mindful of Health Precautions
Keep health considerations in mind:
- Practice Good Hygiene: Encourage handwashing or use of hand sanitizers before consuming treats.
- Stay Home if Unwell: If your child is feeling sick, it’s best to skip the festivities to protect others.
- Avoid Crowded Places: Try to maintain social distancing where possible.
7. Emergency Preparedness
Prepare for unexpected situations:
- Identification: Have your child carry identification with your contact information.
- Establish Check-In Times: If your child is old enough to go out without you, set specific times to check in.
- Teach Stranger Safety: Remind your child not to enter homes or cars of strangers.
8. Open Communication
Ensure your child feels comfortable communicating:
- Discuss Expectations: Talk about safety rules and expectations before heading out.
- Encourage Questions: Let your child know they can ask questions if they’re unsure about something.
Convenient Pediatric Care When You Need It
At My Kids Pediatrics Clinic, your child’s health and safety are our top priorities. We accept Medicaid, ARKids First, and are in-network with most health insurance plans. We also offer a sliding-fee scale to accommodate all families. While we love when parents make appointments, you can also walk in, and we’ll work you in as quickly as possible. Most of our clinics are open from 7:45 am to 6 pm, providing convenient before- and after-school appointment times.
Our dedicated pediatric team is here for you:
- Dr. Jeremy Porter (Hot Springs)
- Dr. Tracy Rowe (Hot Springs, Arkadelphia, Malvern)
- Melanie Newman, APRN (Hot Springs)
- Matt York, APRN (Hot Springs)
- Matthew Huskey, APRN (Hot Springs Village)
Remember, we see children at all our clinic locations, and we’re committed to providing comprehensive care for your family.
Wishing You a Safe and Happy Halloween!
By following these practical tips, you can ensure that Halloween is a fun, memorable, and safe experience for your children. If you have any concerns or need medical advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at 888-710-8220 or visit our website at www.mykidspediatric.com.
Protect your loved ones.
Get the flu shot.
Stay Healthy This Flu Season: Why You Should Get the 2024 Flu Vaccine
As the seasons change and cooler weather approaches, flu season is right around the corner. Protecting yourself and your loved ones from the flu is more important than ever. At Healthy Connections, we’re here to help you stay healthy with the 2024 flu vaccine, now available at all of our clinics.
Why Is the Flu Vaccine Important?
The flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can lead to serious complications, particularly for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with certain chronic health conditions. Each year, the flu causes millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and tens of thousands of deaths in the United States alone.
Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to protect yourself against the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine. The 2024-2025 flu vaccines have been specially designed to protect against three influenza viruses that are expected to be the most common this season.
The Benefits of the Flu Vaccine
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Prevention of Illness: The flu vaccine is your best defense against contracting the flu. It significantly reduces the risk of flu illness, which can keep you from missing work, school, and other important activities.
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Reduction in Severity: Even if you do contract the flu after vaccination, the vaccine has been shown to reduce the severity of the illness, making it less likely that you’ll need to be hospitalized.
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Protection of Vulnerable Populations: By getting vaccinated, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re also helping to protect those around you who may be at higher risk of serious flu complications, such as infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
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Decrease in Healthcare Burden: Flu vaccines help to reduce the overall burden on the healthcare system by preventing hospitalizations and deaths due to flu-related complications. This is especially important during the ongoing challenges of healthcare capacity.
When Should You Get Vaccinated?
It’s best to get your flu vaccine in early fall before the flu begins spreading in your community. The vaccine takes about two weeks to become fully effective, so early vaccination ensures you’re protected when flu activity starts to increase.
Convenient Flu Vaccination Options at Healthy Connections
At Healthy Connections, we make it easy for you to get vaccinated. Flu shots are now available at all of our clinics. You can schedule a convenient appointment by calling 888-710-8220, with options available both before and after work. Or, if you prefer, you can simply walk in, and we’ll work you in as soon as possible.
The flu vaccine is available at no cost through most insurance plans, including Medicare Part B. Be sure to check with your health insurance provider to confirm coverage.
Get Vaccinated—Stay Healthy!
Don’t wait—take the important step of getting your flu vaccine today. It’s the most effective way to protect yourself and those you care about from the flu. For more information about the flu vaccine and to find a Healthy Connections clinic near you, visit https://healthy-connections.org/locations.
Remember, by getting vaccinated, you’re doing your part to help reduce the burden of flu illness in your community. Let’s work together to stay healthy this flu season!
Healthy Connections Earns Prestigious National Recognition with Four CHQR Badges and PCMH Status
Healthy Connections is proud to announce its recent recognition by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) with four Community Health Quality Recognition (CHQR) badges, as well as achieving the esteemed Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) status. These accolades underscore Healthy Connections’ commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible, and patient-focused care across Arkansas.
The CHQR badges recognize health centers that have made notable quality improvement achievements in the areas of access, quality, health equity, and health information technology based on the most recent Uniform Data System (UDS) reporting period. Healthy Connections has been awarded the following CHQR badges:
- Access Enhancer: Recognizes health centers that achieve Health Center Quality Leader or National Quality Leader recognition and demonstrate a 5% increase in total patients for consecutive years, including those receiving mental health, substance use disorder, vision, dental, or enabling services.
- Health Disparities Reducer: Awarded to health centers that, in addition to meeting the criteria for the Access Enhancer badge, demonstrate at least a 10% improvement in clinical quality measures for specific conditions such as low birth weight, hypertension control, and uncontrolled diabetes among one or more racial/ethnic groups while maintaining or improving overall clinical quality.
- Addressing Social Risk Factors: This badge is given to health centers that collect data on patient social risk factors and have increased the percentage of patients receiving enabling services over the last two UDS reporting years.
- Advancing Health Information Technology (HIT) for Quality: Recognizes health centers that have adopted an electronic health record (EHR) system, offered telehealth services, exchanged clinical information online with key providers, engaged patients through health IT, and collected data on patient social risk factors.
In addition to the CHQR badges, Healthy Connections has earned PCMH status, a model of care that places the patient at the center of the healthcare experience. This recognition emphasizes the importance of the relationship between patients and their care teams, which include physicians, advanced practice nurses, physician assistants, pharmacists, nutritionists, mental health professionals, and social workers. The PCMH model focuses on providing comprehensive care that meets the physical and mental health needs of patients while respecting their preferences, values, and cultural needs.
Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc., expressed his gratitude to the staff and the community for their roles in achieving these honors. “These recognitions are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. I want to personally thank each member of our staff for their commitment to excellence and for going above and beyond to ensure our patients receive the best care possible,” said Calandro. “We are also deeply grateful to our community for their unwavering support and trust in us. It is this partnership that drives us to continually improve and innovate in the delivery of healthcare.”
For more than 25 years, Healthy Connections has been a cornerstone of healthcare in Arkansas, providing medical, dental, and behavioral health services. The organization is committed to ensuring that every individual has access to quality healthcare, regardless of their background or financial situation. With the recent recognitions, Healthy Connections continues to lead the way in healthcare excellence.
For more information about Healthy Connections and its services, visit https://healthy-connections.org.
Experience Matters: Trust My Kids Pediatric Clinic for Your Child’s Health
When it comes to your child’s health, experience matters. At My Kids Pediatric Clinic, part of the Healthy Connections Community Health Network, we are proud to offer the most experienced and dedicated pediatric providers in the area. From wellness visits to sick visits, immunizations, and physicals, our team is committed to delivering exceptional care that keeps your children healthy, happy, and thriving.
Your Children’s Health, Our Pediatric Experts
Dr. Tracy Rowe
Choosing the right healthcare provider for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. My Kids Pediatric Clinic is here to make that decision easier. Our experienced team includes board-certified pediatricians and nurse practitioners who are passionate about pediatric care and have the expertise to handle a wide range of health needs for children of all ages.
“Children deserve the very best in healthcare,” says Dr. Tracy Rowe, MD, who serves children at our Hot Springs, Malvern, and Arkadelphia locations. “Our goal is to provide personalized care that meets the unique needs of each child, ensuring they receive the highest quality treatment possible.”
Matt York APRN
Parents who visit our clinic often share their satisfaction with the care their children receive. Here are just a few reflections from families who have experienced the quality of care at My Kids Pediatric Clinic:
- “Professional, excellent with children, listens and answers all questions.”
- “Can’t ask for a better team for your child’s health care. The team from nurses to reception is fantastic!”
- “Best pediatric clinic I have ever been to. The staff is amazing with my kids. They are excellent at explaining things that you don’t understand and always take time to listen to any and every question you may have. They go above and beyond to make sure your child gets the best care possible.”
Dr. Jeremy Porter
At My Kids Pediatric Clinic, we understand that life is busy, and getting your child to the doctor can be challenging. That’s why our clinics are open from 7:45 am to 6 pm, offering convenient before- and after-school appointment slots. We also accept walk-ins because we know that sickness doesn’t always schedule itself in advance. Whether you’re in Hot Springs, Malvern, Arkadelphia, Mount Ida, or Hot Springs Village, our doors are open to you.
Comprehensive Pediatric Services from Experienced Providers
Matthew Huskey APRN
Our team at My Kids Pediatric Clinic offers a full range of pediatric services to ensure your child receives comprehensive care. From routine wellness visits and immunizations to sick visits and physicals, we are equipped to handle all your child’s healthcare needs.
“Our approach is to provide care that is not only medically excellent but also compassionate and family-centered,” says Matt York, APRN, who sees patients in Hot Springs. “We strive to build lasting relationships with our patients and their families, so they feel supported and confident in the care their children receive.”
Melanie Newman APRN
In addition to our standard pediatric services, we also offer specialized care for children with complex health needs. Our team is experienced in managing chronic conditions and providing ongoing support to ensure your child’s health is closely monitored and well-managed.
Accessible, Affordable, and Inclusive Care
At My Kids Pediatric Clinic, we believe that every child deserves access to quality healthcare, regardless of their family’s financial situation. That’s why we proudly accept Medicare, ArKids 1st, and are in-network for most health insurance plans. For families without insurance, we offer a sliding-fee scale to ensure care is affordable for those who qualify.
As part of the Healthy Connections Community Health Network, we are committed to serving our communities with compassion and excellence. We understand that healthcare is not one-size-fits-all, and we take the time to listen, understand, and address the unique needs of each child we serve.
Schedule Your Child’s Appointment Today
Your child’s health is our top priority. With locations in Hot Springs, Malvern, Arkadelphia, Mount Ida, and Hot Springs Village, we are here to serve your family with the highest standard of pediatric care. To schedule an appointment, call 888-710-8220 or visit our website at www.mykidspediatric.com.
Experience matters when it comes to your child’s health. Trust My Kids Pediatric Clinic—your local pediatric experts—for comprehensive, compassionate, and convenient care.
