Empowering Communities through Compassionate and Accessible Healthcare
Healthy Connections is celebrating National Health Center Week, a time dedicated to recognizing the vital role community health centers play in our healthcare system. Sponsored by the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC), this week highlights the commitment and passion of Community Health Center staff, board members, and supporters who make it possible to provide quality, comprehensive healthcare services to more than 31.5 million patients across nearly 15,000 communities annually.
#NHCW24 Theme: Powering Communities Through Caring Connections
This year’s theme, “Powering Communities Through Caring Connections,” underscores the importance of empowering communities by linking them with health centers and elected officials from all levels of government. Community Health Centers serve as a beacon of strength, service, and care in their communities. In moments of pain and loss, they offer support and love. In moments of triumph, they offer hope and a vision for the future.
Your Health, Our Experts
At Healthy Connections, we believe that everyone deserves access to comprehensive healthcare. Our clinics are designed to serve diverse communities across Western and Central Arkansas, ensuring that no one is left behind. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and ARKids 1st, and we are in-network for most health insurance plans. For patients without insurance, we offer a sliding fee scale to make healthcare affordable and accessible.
Comprehensive Services for All
Healthy Connections provides a wide range of services to meet the needs of our patients, from routine check-ups and preventive care to specialized treatments. Our team of dedicated healthcare professionals includes doctors, family nurse practitioners, physician assistants, dentists, therapists, and more, all working together to deliver exceptional care.
Convenient Access to Care
We understand that accessing healthcare should be simple and convenient. That’s why patients can schedule appointments by calling 888-710-8220 or simply walking into any of our locations. Our clinics are open and ready to serve you, providing the care you need when you need it.
Join Us in Celebrating National Health Center Week
Throughout National Health Center Week, we will highlight the importance of community health centers and the impact they have on improving health outcomes. Each day of the week will focus on different aspects of our mission, including public health, healthcare for those experiencing homelessness, agricultural worker health, patient appreciation, behavioral health, staff appreciation, and children’s health.
Empowering Communities through Caring Connections
Healthy Connections is dedicated to powering communities through caring connections. Our commitment to excellence in healthcare ensures that all patients receive the compassionate and comprehensive care they deserve. Your health is important to us, and our experts are here for you, every step of the way.
For more information about our services or to schedule an appointment, please call 888-710-8220 or visit one of our convenient locations. Your health and well-being are our top priority, and we are honored to serve you.
About Healthy Connections
Healthy Connections is a Federally Qualified Health Center with multiple locations throughout Western and Central Arkansas. Established over 25 years ago, we have been providing quality healthcare services to our communities, guided by our pillars of Community, Compassion, and Excellence. We offer a range of medical, dental, and behavioral health services, ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need.
For more information, visit our website at www.healthy-connections.org.
Welcome Clay McDowell, APRN, to Healthy Connections
Healthy Connections welcomes Family Nurse Practitioner Clay McDowell, APRN, to our team. Clay brings a unique blend of experience, passion, and dedication to providing quality healthcare. He will be seeing patients at both the Mt. Ida Clinic, located at 534 Luzerne Street, and the Mena Clinic at 136 Health Park Lane. Patients can schedule appointments with Clay or any of our providers by calling 888-710-8220.
From Carpenter to Care Provider
Clay McDowell’s journey to becoming a nurse practitioner is both inspiring and distinctive. Initially, Clay pursued a career in carpentry, building houses and honing his skills in property development. His transition from carpentry to nursing reflects his adaptability and commitment to serving others. Clay recalls, “I always wanted to be a carpenter and build houses. So that’s what I did until I was 28 years old.” However, the housing crisis in 2008 prompted him to reconsider his career path. Inspired by his wife’s suggestion, Clay decided to explore nursing, leading him to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing from National Park College in 2011, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 2018 and a Master of Science in Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) in 2024 from Walden University.
Dedication to Rural Health
Clay’s commitment to rural health and community service is evident in his own words: “I liked what they stood for. Rural Health. Bringing healthcare to my community. The more I found out about Healthy Connections, the more I wanted to work for this organization. I’m looking forward to being at the Mt. Ida Clinic to serve my people and over at Mena as well.” His passion aligns perfectly with Healthy Connections’ mission to provide accessible and compassionate healthcare to underserved areas.
Professional Services and Patient Care
At Healthy Connections, Clay will be providing a range of services, including primary care, family medicine, management of immune deficiency conditions, opioid addiction treatment, wellness services, and physical examinations. His comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of life are addressed, from newborn through geriatric care. “We want to see the patient as healthy as they can be and functioning as best they can for their life situation,” Clay emphasizes.
Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, expressed his enthusiasm for Clay joining the team: “We are thrilled to have Clay join our Healthy Connections family. His dedication to rural health and his extensive experience in nursing make him a valuable addition to our clinics in Mt. Ida and Mena. We look forward to the positive impact he will bring to our communities.”
A Personal Connection to Mt. Ida
Clay’s deep love for Mt. Ida and his commitment to the community are integral to his identity. Having grown up in Arkansas and traveled extensively, Clay and his family have always held a special place for Mt. Ida. “Out of all the places we’ve been, Mt. Ida, Arkansas is one of the best and we will always have a place here. This is my home. I’m looking forward to serving my community here where I call home,” he says. Clay’s connection to the area is further strengthened by his active membership in Lake Ouachita Baptist Church and his enjoyment of outdoor activities such as hiking, hunting, and fishing.
Schedule With Clay
We invite you to schedule an appointment with Clay McDowell, APRN, or any of our dedicated providers at Healthy Connections. To book an appointment, please call 888-710-8220. We are here to provide you and your family with compassionate and comprehensive healthcare services.
Healthy Connections Shines at Northwest Arkansas Pride Festival
Healthy Connections proudly participated in the Northwest Arkansas Pride Festival in Fayetteville this past Saturday, joining in the celebration of the festival’s 20th anniversary. The event, which has grown from a modest parade on Dickson Street two decades ago to a large-scale celebration attracting thousands, provided an excellent platform for us to engage with the community.
At our booth, we distributed nearly 1,000 rainbow fans, over 600 reusable shopping bags, a variety of stickers, and hand sanitizers, all prominently featuring our “ally” branding. We also offered free cotton candy, adding a touch of sweetness to the day. Additionally, we provided essential healthcare services, including HIV testing, to festival attendees, underscoring our commitment to inclusive and accessible healthcare.
Engaging with individuals from various parts of Arkansas, including Mena, Hot Springs, and Little Rock, reinforced our dedication to outreach and inclusivity. Events like the Pride Festival are crucial for spreading awareness about the comprehensive healthcare services we offer at Healthy Connections, which include gender-affirming treatment, HIV and Hepatitis C care, Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), PrEP, and more.
“Attending events like the Northwest Arkansas Pride Festival allows us to connect directly with the community, share information about our inclusive healthcare services,” said Jeffrey Slatton, Business Communications and Marketing Manager, “and demonstrate our unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community. It’s an opportunity to show that we stand with our patients and the broader community in promoting health, wellness, and acceptance for all.”
The festival’s growth over the years reflects the increasing acceptance and support for the LGBTQ+ community in Northwest Arkansas. It has transformed from a small protest into a joyous celebration of diversity and inclusion. Healthy Connections is honored to support this journey and contribute to the ongoing efforts to foster a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
By participating in the Northwest Arkansas Pride Festival, Healthy Connections not only promotes its healthcare services but also reaffirms its commitment to the values of community, compassion, and excellence. We look forward to continuing our outreach efforts and supporting the LGBTQ+ community in every way possible.
Derwood Brett, esteemed Chairman Emeritus of the Board of Directors for Healthy Connections, Inc., passed away this week at the age of 76. Brett had an extensive and illustrious career in media, public relations, and the electric utility industry, leaving an indelible mark on each field he touched.
Brett’s journalism career saw him publishing newspapers in Arkansas, Louisiana, and Florida. He believed that every community deserved a newspaper that captured the essence of local life, from Little League games to city council meetings. His tenure as president of the Arkansas Press Association in 1989 was characterized by his focus on thorough, detail-oriented reporting. Brett’s editorials were instrumental in significant community advancements, including the adoption of a school tax increase and the establishment of a community college in Helena.
A graduate of Louisiana Tech University with a BA in Journalism, Brett went on to complete his MA in Journalism/Mass Communications at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, where he also served on the adjunct faculty for several years. His academic background and professional experience made him a respected figure in both the media and academic communities.
Transitioning to the electric utility industry, Brett served as Manager of Corporate Communications for Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation and Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, INC. He later became the General Manager of Clay County Electric Cooperative, overseeing the distribution of electric services across multiple counties in Northeast Arkansas and Missouri. His leadership in these roles underscored his commitment to community service and excellence.
After retiring from the electric utility industry, Brett remained active in public service. He served as president of the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce and as a board member for Healthy Connections, Inc., where he continued to advocate for community health initiatives. As Chairman of the Board for Healthy Connections from 2011 through April of this year, Brett’s visionary leadership coincided with major growth at Healthy Connections, expanding from two clinics in two cities to more than 15 clinics across central and western Arkansas.
“Derwood Brett’s unwavering support and faith in both me and Healthy Connections have been instrumental in our growth and success. His leadership and commitment to our mission of providing quality healthcare to all have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire us. Derwood’s belief in the power of community and excellence guided us through many challenges, and we are profoundly grateful for his contributions,” said Healthy Connections CEO Tony Calandro.
Brett is survived by his beloved wife, Frances Brett, their three children, and five grandchildren. His attention to detail, commitment to community, and passion for storytelling will be remembered and cherished by his colleagues, friends, and family.
“Derwood Brett was not only a remarkable leader but also a dear friend. Over the years, we worked together on numerous organizations, and his dedication and passion were always evident. His presence will be deeply missed, and his influence extended far beyond the boardroom. Derwood’s friendship and guidance will remain with me forever,” said Al Gathright, who succeeded Brett as chairman of the board in April.
He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service, and community spirit that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
The memorial service for Derwood Brett will be held at Joplin United Methodist Church in Mount Ida on July 1, 2024, at 1:00 p.m.
Memorials may be made to:
- Arkansas Newspaper Foundation 501c3, 411 South Victory St, Little Rock, AR 72201
- University of Arkansas Rich Mountain Foundation Scholarship Fund, 1100 College Street, Mena, AR 71953
- Joplin United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 89, Mount Ida, AR 71957
Arrangements are under the direction of Thornton Funeral Home in Mount Ida, AR. Guest register at www.thorntonfh.com.
Ribbon Cutting and Welcome Celebration at Healthy Connections Arkadelphia Clinic
On Thursday, the Healthy Connections Arkadelphia clinic hosted a vibrant Ribbon Cutting and Welcome Celebration, in partnership with the Arkadelphia Alliance. This event marked the official introduction of our newest healthcare providers: Kristin Brown, APRN; Leslie Collie, APRN; and Dr. Kara Worley, OBGYN. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined us to celebrate this milestone. The event was a wonderful opportunity for the community to meet Kristin and Leslie, who are now available for primary care and family medicine services for patients of all ages.
Our Arkadelphia clinic is committed to providing accessible and high-quality healthcare. We proudly accept Medicaid, Medicare, ARKids 1st, and most major health insurance plans. For those without insurance, we offer a sliding fee scale to ensure no one is left without the care they need. Dr. Kara Worley, known for her “Catching Babies” philosophy, specializes in women’s health, including gynecology and obstetrics.
Kristin Brown, APRN, and Leslie Collie, APRN, bring a wealth of experience and a compassionate approach to patient care. They are dedicated to promoting wellness and providing comprehensive healthcare services to individuals and families in our community. Whether you need routine check-ups, management of chronic conditions, or acute care, Kristin and Leslie are here to support your health journey.
Dr. Kara Worley offers specialized care in obstetrics and gynecology. Her “Catching Babies” philosophy underscores her commitment to providing personalized and empathetic care to expectant mothers. Dr. Worley is well-known for her dedication to women’s health and her ability to make her patients feel comfortable and supported throughout their healthcare experience.
Located at 301 Professional Park Drive, the Arkadelphia clinic is open Monday through Thursday, from 7:45 am to 6:00 pm. For appointments, please call 888-710-8220. You can learn more about the clinic and our services at Healthy Connections Arkadelphia.
Community Support and Acknowledgements
We are deeply thankful for the overwhelming support from our community, which made this event a success. Special thanks to Patterson Federal Credit Union, Southern Bancorp, Justin Rogers with Farm Bureau, Shuffield Music Company, Arkadelphia Walmart, The V B & Grill, Billie Murphy and the UPS Store, Heartland Pharmacy, Dr. Byrd’s office, Samantha’s Bakery, and Michael Brown with Brown’s Grinding Co. for their generous contributions.
Congratulations to our door prize drawing winners: Patricia McGee of Arkadelphia, Carolyn King of Arkadelphia, KiShiana Walton of Hope, Johnesha of Arkadelphia, Gabrielle Perry of Arkadelphia, Jason Lowe of Point Cedar, Marquita Morehead of Arkadelphia, and Linda Easley of Gurdon. Prizes can be picked up at the clinic during normal business hours.
Thank you once again to everyone who came out to support us. We look forward to continuing to serve the Arkadelphia community with the same dedication and excellence that defines Healthy Connections.
Join Us for the Arkadelphia Clinic Ribbon Cutting and Community Celebration on June 6!
Healthy Connections is excited to invite the community to the ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration of our Arkadelphia clinic on Thursday, June 6. The event will commence at 9:30 a.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in collaboration with the Arkadelphia Alliance, marking the beginning of a day filled with festivities.
We welcome everyone to stop by and enjoy a complimentary lunch, meet our exceptional healthcare providers, and tour our state-of-the-art facility. This is an excellent opportunity to get to know our new providers Kristin Brown, APRN, Leslie Collie, APRN, and Kara Worley, OBGYN. Our clinic is currently accepting new patients and is in-network for most health insurance plans. We also have openings for Medicaid and Medicare patients and offer a sliding fee scale for those without insurance who qualify.
Join us to meet Leslie, Kristin, Kara, and Dr. Anne Murphy, and to experience firsthand the comprehensive healthcare services we provide. There will be fun activities for both kids and adults, making it a perfect family event.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 888-710-8220. Learn more about our Arkadelphia clinic, its providers, and the services offered by visiting Healthy Connections Arkadelphia Clinic. We look forward to seeing you there!
