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Healthy Connections
My Kids Pediatric Clinic

CALL US: 888.710.8220

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Evolve Behavioral Health Services
Healthy Connections
My Kids Pediatric Clinic

CALL US: 888.710.8220

FNP Matt York On THV11’s The Vine

Matt York, APRN, Discusses Family Care Services on THV11’s The Vine at Nine

Matt York, APRN, a Family Nurse Practitioner with Healthy Connections and My Kids Pediatric Clinic at the Hot Springs Central location, was recently featured on THV11’s The Vine at Nine program. During the segment, Matt shared valuable insights into the wide range of services offered at Healthy Connections, emphasizing the importance of accessible healthcare for all ages.

As a Family Nurse Practitioner, Matt provides comprehensive care, treating patients from newborns to adults. In the interview, Matt explained, “I see both kids and adults, and we cover a full spectrum of care, from wellness exams to sick visits, school physicals, and more.” He highlighted the variety of services available at Healthy Connections, ensuring families have access to quality care at every stage of life.

When discussing the current season’s health challenges, Matt addressed the importance of staying on top of sicknewomenss prevention. “This time of year, we see a lot of respiratory issues, like walking pneumonia,” he noted. “We do testing for different viruses to help identify the issue and guide treatment.” He also emphasized the importance of preventative care: “Keeping kids healthy involves good diet, exercise, and staying up to date with vaccines.”

Healthy Connections prides itself on being a “one-stop shop” for families, offering a variety of services under one roof. Matt discussed the convenience of receiving care for both children and adults at the same location: “It’s great to be able to see an entire family in one visit. It saves time and makes it easier for families to manage their healthcare.”

In addition to pediatric and family care, Healthy Connections also provides specialized services such as women’s health, addiction treatment, and more. Matt pointed out, “We aim to make healthcare more accessible by offering a wide range of services that meet the needs of every family member.”

Get the Care You Need, When You Need It

At Healthy Connections, we understand how important it is for families to stay on top of their health. Whether you’re scheduling a wellness exam or need care for a current illness, our team is here to help. As Matt said, “Healthy Connections is truly a one-stop shop for all your family’s healthcare needs.”

To schedule an appointment with Matt York or any of our providers, call us at 888-710-8220. You can also visit our website to learn more about the services we offer.

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!

Mandilyn Cottingham Seeing Patients In Texarkana

Healthy Connections Welcomes Mandilyn Cottingham, APRN, to Texarkana Clinic

Texarkana, AR — Healthy Connections is proud to announce the addition of Mandilyn Cottingham, APRN, to its Texarkana clinic at 903 Arkansas Boulevard. With more than 20 years of experience in healthcare, Mandilyn brings a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to patient-centered care. Her arrival also marks a milestone as the Texarkana clinic becomes a designated HIV Center of Excellence, providing expanded services to meet the diverse needs of the community.

Mandilyn specializes in family practice, offering care for patients of all ages, from newborns to seniors. Her services include managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, addressing acute illnesses, and focusing on preventive care to keep patients healthy.

“I’ve pretty much worked everywhere in nursing you can work,” Mandilyn shared. “What I love most is family practice because it allows me to care for anyone, from birth to end-of-life, managing everything from acute issues to chronic conditions.”

The Texarkana clinic’s designation as an HIV Center of Excellence reflects Healthy Connections’ dedication to providing specialized services. Mandilyn will lead efforts in HIV treatment and prevention, including PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), and offer Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction. “Texarkana has a critical need for affordable, quality healthcare,” Mandilyn explained. “This clinic is in a central location, accessible to many patients, including those who rely on public transportation. Our goal is to deliver care that meets patients’ needs before problems escalate.”

Mandilyn’s extensive background includes roles in emergency medicine, critical care, home health, and hospice, in addition to family practice. Her broad experience equips her to provide compassionate, comprehensive care to individuals with a variety of health concerns. “I treat my patients as I would expect my family to be treated,” Mandilyn said. “Getting to know my patients and their circumstances helps me create better, patient-focused care.”

Healthy Connections Texarkana Clinic: Accessible and Patient-Focused Care

The Healthy Connections Texarkana clinic is designed to meet the healthcare needs of the local community. Located at 903 Arkansas Boulevard, the clinic is open Monday through Thursday, 7:45 am to 6:00 pm, offering extended hours to accommodate working families. Its central location makes it convenient for patients who rely on public transportation or live in nearby neighborhoods.

“Texarkana is a vital part of our mission to provide quality, compassionate healthcare across Arkansas,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections. “We’re excited to have Mandilyn join our team. Her extensive experience and deep connection to this community make her the perfect fit to lead the clinic. We’re confident her expertise and dedication will positively impact the lives of our patients and their families.”

A Connection to Texarkana

A native of Hope, Arkansas, Mandilyn has lived in Texarkana for more than two decades. She and her husband, Jacob, have four children, ranging from college age to kindergarten. Outside of work, Mandilyn’s life revolves around her family. “You can usually find me at a ballpark, gym, or football field cheering on my kids,” she said. “We also love camping, boating, and spending time with friends.”

Comprehensive Services at Texarkana Clinic

Healthy Connections Texarkana clinic provides a full range of services, including:

  • Family Practice: Care for patients of all ages.
  • HIV Treatment and Prevention: Including PrEP.
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction.
  • Chronic Condition Management: Including diabetes and hypertension.
  • Preventive Care: Wellness visits, screenings, and vaccinations.

Healthy Connections invites the Texarkana community to visit the clinic and meet Mandilyn Cottingham, APRN. “We’re here for you, Texarkana,” Mandilyn said. “Come see us and let us take care of your healthcare needs.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.healthy-connections.org/texarkana or call 888-710-8220.

About Healthy Connections

Healthy Connections is a Federally-Qualified Health Center (FQHC) dedicated to providing quality medical, dental, and behavioral health services to communities across Arkansas for more than 25 years. Committed to community, compassion, and excellence, Healthy Connections ensures that everyone has access to high-quality healthcare.