Watch Dr. Sharon Meador On KATV GMA

We’re excited to share a recent highlight from Healthy Connections, featuring Dr. Sharon Meador on KATV’s Good Morning Arkansas. Dr. Meador, a dedicated member of our medical team, took the opportunity to discuss the vital role of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) in the field of addiction and recovery, especially concerning opioid use.

At Healthy Connections, we understand that addiction is a complex challenge that requires a multifaceted approach. It’s not just about addressing the physical aspects but also nurturing the emotional and mental well-being of those affected. This is where MAT steps in as a cornerstone of our treatment options, combining medication with counseling and behavioral therapies to offer a comprehensive, individualized recovery plan.

Dr. Meador’s appearance on Good Morning Arkansas was more than just an interview; it was a moment to shine a light on the hope and healing that MAT can bring to individuals and families struggling with opioid addiction. It emphasized our commitment to providing cutting-edge, compassionate care to our community, underlining our core values of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.

Recovery from addiction is a personal journey, one that requires support, understanding, and the right resources. Medication-Assisted Treatment at Healthy Connections offers a path forward, helping individuals regain control of their lives and embark on a path to healing and resilience.

If you or someone you know is facing the challenges of addiction, we’re here to help. Visit our dedicated MAT page at https://healthy-connections.org/mat or call us at 888-710-8220 for more information on how we can support your journey to recovery.

Together, we’re not just confronting addiction; we’re fostering an environment of healing and hope, one patient at a time. Join us at Healthy Connections, where every step towards recovery is a step towards a brighter, healthier future.

Remodeled De Queen Clinic Opens

Healthy Connections De Queen Clinic: Unveiling Our Newly Remodeled Space!

Healthy Connections is proud to announce the reopening of our De Queen Clinic in a beautifully renovated facility on Monday, March 4, 2024. Located at the familiar address of 1206 West Collin Raye Drive, but with a fresh new entrance on the North 13th St. side of the building, this marks a significant advancement in our mission to provide outstanding medical, dental, and behavioral health services to our community.

Exciting New Features:

  • A New Entrance: Patients will now find us more easily with our new entrance, complete with an overhang, on the North 13th St. side of the building.
  • Expanded Waiting Room: We’ve significantly increased the size of our waiting room for improved comfort and accessibility.
  • More Exam Rooms: To enhance our service delivery, we’ve added more exam rooms.
  • Larger Exam Rooms: Our exam rooms have been expanded to ensure privacy and comfort during your visit.
  • State-of-the-Art In-House Lab: With our new in-house lab, getting tests and results is faster and more convenient than ever.
  • Committed Healthcare Providers: Our team, including Carolin Hockersmith APRN, Inja Brown APRN, Angela Martin APRN, and Autumn Morales APRN, is eager to continue providing compassionate and expert care.

Our Commitment Continues: Beyond celebrating our 25th year of service, Healthy Connections continues to strengthen our dedication to the communities we serve. Accepting Medicaid, Medicare, ArKids 1st, and most insurance plans (in network), we strive to ensure that our services are accessible to everyone. For those without insurance, a sliding-fee scale is available, emphasizing our commitment to providing care regardless of financial circumstances. Additionally, as a bilingual clinic, we offer translation assistance to support our diverse community.

Join Us in This New Chapter:

We are not just reopening; we are reimagining how healthcare is delivered in De Queen. Our upgraded facilities reflect our enduring commitment to community, compassion, and excellence. We invite you to visit and experience the enhanced level of care and comfort designed with you in mind.

Healthy Connections is more than just a healthcare provider; we are your partner in health, now and in the years to come. We look forward to serving you in our newly remodeled De Queen Clinic and continuing our journey together towards better health for all.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 888-710-8220 or visit our website at www.healthy-connections.org.

Welcome to the Next Level of Care at Healthy Connections De Queen Clinic.

Healthy Connections Clínica De Queen: ¡Presentamos Nuestro Espacio Recién Remodelado!

Healthy Connections se enorgullece en anunciar la reapertura de nuestra Clínica De Queen en una instalación bellamente renovada el lunes, 4 de marzo de 2024. Ubicada en la conocida dirección de 1206 West Collin Raye Drive, pero con una nueva entrada en el lado de North 13th St. del edificio, esto marca un avance significativo en nuestra misión de proporcionar servicios excepcionales de salud médica, dental y conductual a nuestra comunidad.

Nuevas Características Emocionantes:

  • Una Nueva Entrada: Los pacientes ahora nos encontrarán más fácilmente con nuestra nueva entrada, equipada con un alero, en el lado de North 13th St. del edificio.
  • Sala de Espera Ampliada: Hemos aumentado significativamente el tamaño de nuestra sala de espera para mejorar la comodidad y accesibilidad.
  • Más Consultorios: Para mejorar nuestra entrega de servicios, hemos añadido más consultorios.
  • Consultorios Más Grandes: Nuestros consultorios se han ampliado para garantizar la privacidad y comodidad durante su visita.
  • Laboratorio Interno de Última Generación: Con nuestro nuevo laboratorio interno, obtener pruebas y resultados es más rápido y conveniente que nunca.
  • Proveedores de Salud Comprometidos: Nuestro equipo, incluidos Carolin Hockersmith APRN, Inja Brown APRN, Angela Martin APRN y Autumn Morales APRN, está ansioso por continuar brindando atención compasiva y experta.

Nuestro Compromiso Continúa:

Más allá de celebrar nuestro 25° año de servicio, Healthy Connections continúa fortaleciendo nuestra dedicación a las comunidades que servimos. Aceptando Medicaid, Medicare, ArKids 1st y la mayoría de los planes de seguro (en la red), nos esforzamos por asegurar que nuestros servicios sean accesibles para todos. Para aquellos sin seguro, está disponible una escala de tarifas variable, enfatizando nuestro compromiso de proporcionar atención independientemente de las circunstancias financieras. Además, como una clínica bilingüe, ofrecemos asistencia con la traducción para apoyar a nuestra comunidad diversa.

Únase a Nosotros en Este Nuevo Capítulo:

No estamos solo reabriendo; estamos reimaginando cómo se entrega la atención médica en De Queen. Nuestras instalaciones mejoradas reflejan nuestro compromiso duradero con la comunidad, la compasión y la excelencia. Le invitamos a visitar y experimentar el nivel mejorado de atención y comodidad diseñado pensando en usted.

Healthy Connections es más que un proveedor de atención médica; somos su socio en salud, ahora y en los años venideros. Esperamos servirle en nuestra Clínica De Queen recién remodelada y continuar nuestro viaje juntos hacia una mejor salud para todos.

Para más información o para programar una cita, llame al 888-710-8220 o visite nuestro sitio web en www.healthy-connections.org.

Bienvenido al Próximo Nivel de Cuidado en la Clínica Healthy Connections De Queen.

February Employees of the Month

Healthy Connections is proud to announce our February 2024 Employees of the Month: Charlotte Craig from our West Communities and Andrea Pilcher from our East Communities.

These recognitions are a testament to their outstanding contributions and embodiment of our core values: Community, Compassion, and Excellence. Each month, we celebrate team members who exemplify these principles, making a significant impact in their roles and in the lives of those we serve.

Charlotte Craig, a billing specialist who has been with Healthy Connections since 2017, works remotely to ensure the seamless operation of our financial services. Charlotte’s role is critical in maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of our billing processes, directly affecting our ability to care for patients and support our staff. A colleague’s nomination praised her, stating, “Charlotte is extremely knowledgeable and always willing to help anyone. She is so kind and good-hearted, truly wanting the best for our patients and coworkers. She strives to ensure that our patients are taken care of in a timely manner, demonstrating her commitment to compassion and excellence in every task she undertakes.”

Andrea Pilcher, our East Communities winner, has been a pivotal part of Healthy Connections since 2016, serving as a Clinical Territory Lead at the Hot Springs Central clinic. Andrea’s role is instrumental in mentoring new nurses and providers, ensuring they receive top-notch training and support. Her dedication to excellence is evident in the way she goes above and beyond for her team, as highlighted by a coworker: “She provides excellent training and has ensured that both nurses and providers’ onboarding experience and training are of the highest quality.” Andrea’s efforts significantly enhance our clinical operations, contributing to the overall health and well-being of our communities.

We are delighted to honor Charlotte Craig and Andrea Pilcher for their exceptional contributions to Healthy Connections. Their dedication to our pillars of Community, Compassion, and Excellence not only strengthens our team but also inspires others to achieve their best. Congratulations to both Charlotte and Andrea on this well-deserved recognition.

The Four C’s of HIV Care and the Power of U=U

Navigating a Healthier Future: The Four C’s of Comprehensive HIV Care and the Power of U=U

By Dr. Sharon Meador MD
Physician
Healthy Connections

Sharon Meador, MD

In the face of HIV, a disease that has touched countless lives globally, our mission at Healthy Connections has never been more critical. As we navigate the complexities of HIV care, our guiding principles, rooted in the Four C’s: Crisis, Condoms, Cultures, and Community, are bolstered by the transformative message of U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable). This pivotal concept underscores that effectively treating HIV to the point where the virus becomes undetectable in blood tests results in zero risk of transmission through sex or from mother to child, marking a monumental step in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Crisis: The First Step is Knowledge

The HIV epidemic remains a pressing health crisis, with an estimated 1.2 million people worldwide living with HIV. Confidential testing is the cornerstone of our approach, allowing individuals to gain vital knowledge about their status and the latest in treatment advancements. Understanding that nearly 20% of people living with HIV are unaware of their condition, we advocate for everyone to be tested at least once. The journey to managing HIV often begins with a simple step: taking one pill a day. This treatment approach has transformed HIV into a manageable condition, significantly enhancing quality of life.

Condoms: More Than Prevention

Condoms stand as our first line of defense against HIV transmission. Their correct and consistent use can dramatically reduce the risk of HIV, underscoring our dedication to sexual health education and access to condoms. Beyond HIV, condoms are instrumental in preventing other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), reinforcing their role in a comprehensive sexual health strategy.

Cultures: Embracing Diversity with Sensitivity

Understanding and respecting cultural differences is essential in our approach to HIV prevention and care. Our services are designed to be culturally sensitive, acknowledging the diverse beliefs and practices that influence health behaviors. This respect for diversity enhances our ability to connect with communities on a deeper level, fostering an environment where everyone feels seen and supported.

Community: A United Front Against Stigma

Our final ‘C’ highlights the indispensable role of the community in overcoming HIV-related stigma and discrimination. By fostering a supportive network through HIV support groups and comprehensive care services, we strive to create a space where individuals can find not just medical care but also a sense of belonging and acceptance.

U=U: A Message of Hope and Transformation

The U=U campaign is a beacon of hope, offering a powerful testament to the advances in HIV treatment. By achieving and maintaining an undetectable viral load, individuals living with HIV can lead healthy, fulfilling lives without fear of transmitting the virus to others. This message is integral to our education and treatment strategies, emphasizing that with proper treatment, HIV is not a barrier to a full, healthy life.

At Healthy Connections, we are committed to a world where comprehensive HIV care is accessible to all, guided by the principles of Community, Compassion, and Excellence. Join us in this vital journey by reaching out for testing, treatment, and support. We have locations throughout central and western Arkansas that can provide help and hope. Call us at 888-710-8220. Learn more about our services at https://healthy-connections.org.

Together, we can navigate a healthier future for everyone affected by HIV.

Dr. Sharon Meador is a dedicated physician at the Little Rock Midtown clinic of Healthy Connections, a Federally-Qualified Health Center (FQHC) celebrating more than 25 years of community care. As a certified HIV Specialist, Dr. Meador provides primary care, HIV treatment, MAT, LGBTQ+ services, PrEP, and more. She is also a Ryan White HIV/AIDS Medical Provider. For appointments, call 888-710-8220. Discover how we embody our philosophy of Community, Compassion, and Excellence at www.healthy-connections.org.

Healthy Connections Announces Sheridan Clinic Reopening

Healthy Connections is excited to announce the Sheridan clinic reopening, marking a new chapter in healthcare for the community. With extensive renovations completed, we are proud to unveil our new location at 1409 S. Rock St., Suite B in Sheridan. This transformation has created a modern healthcare facility designed to cater to the diverse needs of every patient.

State-of-the-Art Facilities for Comprehensive Care

Featuring state-of-the-art exam rooms, a dedicated telehealth services suite, and a fully-equipped lab, our clinic is poised to offer comprehensive primary care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. To accommodate our patients’ busy schedules, we’ve introduced extended hours at our medical clinic in Sheridan, operating from 7:45 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Thursday, ensuring healthcare is accessible to everyone in Grant County.

Welcome Dr. Marty Hearyman: A New Face of Care in Sheridan

We’re thrilled to introduce Dr. Marty Hearyman as a recent addition to our team. As a new healthcare provider in Sheridan, Dr. Hearyman’s extensive experience and unique background as a former college football player and high school coach enrich our primary care services.

Exciting Developments: New Provider and Future Services

Healthy Connections is not only excited about the introduction of a new provider to the Sheridan Clinic but is also planning to offer additional health services at this location in the future. These expansions will enhance our capacity to serve the community with an even broader range of healthcare options, demonstrating our commitment to evolving with the healthcare needs of our patients.

Comprehensive Healthcare Access for Sheridan Patients

Patients at our Sheridan location have access to the full suite of services provided by Healthy Connections across west and central Arkansas. This ensures that whether you need specialized care or access to a variety of health services, comprehensive healthcare is within reach.

Our Commitment to Accessibility

Dedicated to making healthcare accessible to all, Healthy Connections accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurances, including United Healthcare and Humana. Our sliding fee scale medical care in Sheridan ensures that uninsured patients can also receive the care they need at affordable rates.

A Message from Our CEO

Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, shares his enthusiasm for the reopening and the clinic’s dedication to excellence. “The Healthy Connections clinic renovation reflects our unwavering commitment to serving the community with the highest standards of care.”

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the new Healthy Connections Sheridan Clinic firsthand. To schedule your appointment, call 888-710-8220 or visit our website. Discover more about our primary care services in Sheridan and our dedicated team at Healthy Connections Sheridan Clinic.

Introducing Horizons: Your Health, Our Experts

Welcome to Horizons, the official blog of Healthy Connections, where “Your Health. Our Experts.” is not just a tagline—it’s our commitment to you. As we continue to celebrate more than 25 years of serving the communities of Western and Central Arkansas, we’re excited to launch a platform that brings you closer to the wealth of knowledge our health professionals hold. Horizons is found at https://healthy-connections.org/horizons, your new go-to resource for health tips, advice, and information.

At Healthy Connections, we understand that navigating the world of health and wellness can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created Horizons—a space where our expert providers, including doctors, APRNs, PAs, dentists, hygienists, therapists, and more, share their insights, experiences, and advice to empower you on your health journey.

What You Can Expect from Horizons

  • Expert Advice: Our blog features content written by our diverse team of healthcare providers. From the latest OBGYN tips to effective exercise routines, from dental care best practices to mental health support, our experts cover a wide range of topics to ensure your health needs are met.
  • Practical Health Tips: Horizons is designed to offer practical, actionable advice that you can incorporate into your daily life. Whether it’s strategies for managing stress, nutritional guidance, or preventive care measures, our goal is to help you live a healthier, happier life.
  • Latest Health News and Research: Stay informed with the latest health news and research explained in clear, understandable language. Our providers break down complex medical information into digestible insights, keeping you informed and engaged with the newest developments in healthcare.

Join Us on the Journey

As part of our philosophy built on Community, Compassion, and Excellence, we believe that informed patients make empowered patients. Horizons is more than just a blog; it’s a reflection of our dedication to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.

We invite you to explore Horizons, bookmark our page, and join us as we embark on this new chapter. Together, let’s create a future where health and wellness are accessible to all, supported by the knowledge and expertise of Healthy Connections’ trusted providers.

Visit us today at https://healthy-connections.org/horizons and take the first step towards a healthier tomorrow. Your health. Our experts. Your journey to wellness starts here.