Healthy Connections Welcomes Matthew Huskey, APRN
Healthy Connections is proud to announce that Matthew Huskey, APRN, has joined our team as a Family Nurse Practitioner. With his extensive background in nursing and commitment to providing compassionate care, Matthew will be seeing patients at our Mount Ida, Hot Springs Chippewa, and Hot Springs Village Clinics.
Background and Experience
Matthew Huskey brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his new role at Healthy Connections. After completing his Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and UAMS College of Nursing in 2012, he joined Hamilton West Family Medicine in 2018. His clinical background includes working in emergency rooms and intensive care units, equipping him with a comprehensive skill set to handle a wide range of medical conditions.
“Growing up on a farm in Hope, Arkansas, I developed a strong work ethic and a deep sense of community,” Matthew said. “I was inspired to pursue nursing after my son had surgery and received exceptional care from a male nurse. It was then that I realized my calling to help others in their times of need.”
Comprehensive Patient Care
Matthew Huskey will be providing a variety of services at Healthy Connections, including primary care, HIV treatment, Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), sick visits, wellness visits, and physicals (DOT, School, Sports). He is dedicated to serving patients of all ages, from young children to the elderly. His approach to patient care is rooted in treating each individual like family.
“I have a simple philosophy when it comes to patient care,” Matthew said. “I treat every patient as if they were a family member. I will never do anything for a patient that I wouldn’t do for my own mother. When I walk into a room, I see a cousin, a brother, a sister, not just a patient. This approach ensures that I provide the highest quality of care and build strong, trusting relationships with my patients.”
Commitment to the Community
Matthew’s connection to rural communities aligns perfectly with Healthy Connections’ mission to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to underserved populations.
“I grew up in a rural area where healthcare was often hard to come by. My personal mission is to offer the best quality care to everyone, regardless of their background or financial situation,” Matthew shares.
Healthy Connections CEO, Tony Calandro, expressed his enthusiasm for Matthew joining the team: “We are thrilled to have Matthew Huskey on board. His dedication to patient care and his experience in both acute and chronic conditions make him a valuable addition to our team. We are confident that our patients will greatly benefit from his expertise and compassionate approach.”
Join Us in Welcoming Matthew Huskey
Patients seeking appointments with Matthew Huskey at our Mount Ida, Hot Springs Chippewa, or Hot Springs Village Clinics can call 888-710-8220. Healthy Connections is committed to providing high-quality healthcare services and accepts Medicaid, Medicare, ArKids 1st, and is in-network for most health insurance plans. A sliding-fee scale is also available for patients without insurance who qualify.
Healthy Connections is dedicated to powering communities through caring connections, and we are excited to have Matthew Huskey join us in this mission. His passion for healthcare and commitment to treating patients with the utmost respect and care aligns perfectly with our values. We look forward to the positive impact he will have on our patients and the community.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 888-710-8220.
Announcing Our July 2024 Employees of the Month: Kim Brown and Sharon Maechler
Healthy Connections is thrilled to announce our July 2024 Employees of the Month, Kim Brown and Sharon Maechler. Their dedication to patient care and their exemplary work ethic embody the core values and mission of Healthy Connections, making them invaluable members of our team.
Kim Brown – Patient Care Coordinator, Little Rock Midtown Clinic (East Communities)
Kim Brown has been with Healthy Connections since 2022 and has consistently demonstrated a commitment to exceptional patient care. According to her coworkers, Kim goes above and beyond in her role, ensuring that every patient feels valued and appreciated. Her positive attitude and dedication have earned her countless kudos from both team members and patients. One nomination stated, “Almost every time I am in the Midtown Clinic, I receive kudos from other team members and patients. Patients oftentimes express how Kim makes them feel valued and appreciated.”
Kim embodies our mission statement and core values of Compassion, Community, and Excellence in her daily work. Her can-do attitude and spirit are perfect for Healthy Connections, making her a deserving recipient of the Employee of the Month honor. Her coworkers value her contributions, and patients love the service she provides. We are proud to have Kim as part of our team and celebrate her outstanding achievements.
Sharon Maechler – Referral Coordinator, Mena Street Location
Sharon Maechler joined Healthy Connections in 2023 and has quickly become an essential part of the Mena Street team. As a referral coordinator, Sharon works diligently to ensure that our patients are taken care of with their referrals, often going out of her way to secure earlier appointments for those in need. Her dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed. One nomination highlighted, “Sharon always works hard daily to make sure our patients are taken care of and have appointments set up with their specialists. Countless times Sharon has gone out of her way to make sure a patient has an earlier appointment when they are scheduled out later than they should be with a referral.”
Sharon’s coworkers have praised her as a pleasure to work with, and several patients have expressed their gratitude for her efficient and timely assistance with referrals. Her outstanding work ethic and commitment to patient care make her a fantastic coworker and a well-deserving recipient of the Employee of the Month award. We are honored to have Sharon on our team and appreciate her dedication to providing exceptional service to our patients.
Please join us in congratulating Kim Brown and Sharon Maechler for their remarkable contributions to Healthy Connections. Their hard work and dedication are what make our organization thrive, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.
As the world celebrates the Olympic Games, Healthy Connections is inspired by the drive for excellence, perseverance, and unity that defines this global event. We channel this Olympic spirit into our daily mission, striving to win the gold medal in healthcare service for our patients and communities every day.
The Olympic Spirit in Healthcare
The Olympic Games symbolize the pinnacle of human achievement, showcasing the dedication and effort athletes put into their craft. At Healthy Connections, we embrace these same values. Our commitment to Community, Compassion, and Excellence drives us to provide outstanding healthcare services, ensuring every patient receives gold-standard care.
Striving for Excellence in Patient Care
At Healthy Connections, excellence is at the core of our mission. Our team of healthcare professionals works tirelessly to deliver top-notch primary care, family medicine, dental services, and behavioral health services. Just as Olympians push their limits to achieve greatness, we go above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Innovative Practices: We continually seek new ways to improve patient care. Our expanded telehealth services allow patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes, and our integration of advanced technology ensures we remain at the cutting edge of healthcare innovation.
Impacting Our Community with Affordable Healthcare
Much like the Olympics unite nations, Healthy Connections brings together the communities we serve. Our impact extends beyond individual patient care, fostering a sense of unity and promoting overall well-being.
Serving the Community: As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), we are dedicated to making healthcare accessible to all. Our sliding fee scale, free health screenings, and educational workshops are just a few ways we support our communities. One patient shared, “Healthy Connections has been a lifesaver for me and my family. The care and support we receive here are unmatched.”
Promoting Health and Wellness in Arkansas
Inspired by the discipline and dedication of Olympic athletes, we encourage our patients to pursue their health and wellness goals. Here are some tips to help you go for the gold in your health journey:
Healthy Living Tips:
- Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Staying hydrated is also crucial.
- Physical Activity: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This can include walking, cycling, or even dancing.
- Mental Health: Take time to relax and recharge. Practices such as meditation, yoga, and mindful breathing can help manage stress and improve mental well-being.
Spotlight on Our Champions in Comprehensive Healthcare
Our healthcare providers are the true champions of Healthy Connections, embodying the Olympic values in their everyday work. Their dedication and compassion make a profound impact on the lives of our patients.
Exemplary Service: Our providers continuously strive for excellence, ensuring every patient receives the highest quality care. Their efforts, whether through innovative treatments or personalized patient interactions, contribute significantly to the well-being of our community.
Join Us on the Journey
Just as athletes aim for gold at the Olympic Games, Healthy Connections aims to win the gold medal in healthcare every day. We are committed to providing exceptional care, fostering a healthy community, and helping our patients achieve their personal best. Together, we can reach new heights and build a stronger, healthier future.
At Healthy Connections, we proudly accept Medicaid, Medicare, ArKids 1st, and are in-network for most health insurance plans. For patients without insurance who qualify, we offer a sliding fee scale to ensure everyone has access to quality healthcare. To schedule an appointment with our providers at any location, please call 888-710-8220. For more information, visit our website at www.healthy-connections.org.
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.
