Welcome Matt York, APRN, to Healthy Connections and My Kids Pediatric Clinic in Hot Springs
Healthy Connections and My Kids Pediatric Clinic are thrilled to announce the addition of Matt York, APRN, to our healthcare team in Hot Springs. As a Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in both pediatric and adult care, Matt joins us at our location at 3604 Central Avenue, Suite D. Our clinics embody the commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare services across all ages in the Hot Springs community.
Comprehensive Pediatric and Adult Care
Matt York brings his expertise to My Kids Pediatric Clinic and Healthy Connections, enhancing our capacity to offer top-tier pediatric care and adult primary care in Hot Springs. His approach to healthcare is deeply rooted in compassion and understanding, ensuring a seamless experience for patients and their families.
“Healthy Connections is a good fit for me. They need someone that’s going to be able to see pediatric patients and then go immediately to the next room and maybe see a 75-year-old, and I’m comfortable doing both,” he said.
Healthy Connections, Inc., CEO Tony Calandro said York is an ideal match for the Hot Springs Central location.
“Bringing Matt into our team is more than just adding a skilled practitioner; it’s about enriching our family with someone who embodies our core values of community, compassion, and excellence,” Calandro said. “Matt’s unique ability to connect with patients of all ages and backgrounds, coupled with his dedication to providing inclusive healthcare, perfectly aligns with our mission to serve and uplift the entire Hot Springs community.”
Pediatric Healthcare Services in Hot Springs
My Kids Pediatric Clinic, which also features Jeremy Porter, MD, and Melanie Newman, APRN, is set to redefine pediatric healthcare in Hot Springs. York’s commitment to making healthcare visits enjoyable and memorable ensures that children and their families have a positive experience.
“I don’t take things seriously. I have a good time. Everybody’s going to enjoy seeing me. We pal around and joke and have a good time, and I will remember little funny things about the last visit, usually bring them up.,” he said.
Adult Healthcare Services in Hot Springs
Healthy Connections welcomes adults to benefit from Matt York’s comprehensive approach to adult medicine. Matt’s ability to cater to the complex needs of adult patients while maintaining a light-hearted and engaging environment makes him a valuable asset. His approach underscores the clinic’s mission to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for the adult population in Hot Springs.
Accepting Medicaid, ARKids 1st, and Medicare in Hot Springs
Ensuring accessibility to healthcare is a priority for both Healthy Connections and My Kids Pediatric Clinic. York emphasizes the importance of this inclusivity. Our clinics are dedicated to serving the community by accepting Medicaid, ARKids 1st, Medicare, and most health insurance plans, alongside offering a sliding fee scale for those without insurance.
“I would estimate 90 percent of the patients that I see in the pediatric clinic have Medicaid. It doesn’t change care. It can be nice because things get covered that private insurance won’t usually cover,” he said.
Join Us at 3604 Central Avenue, Suite D, for Family Healthcare
Our clinic at 3604 Central Avenue, Suite D, stands as a beacon of health and wellness in Hot Springs, offering a range of services tailored to meet the healthcare needs of both children and adults. In addition to primary care and pediatrics services, the Hot Springs Central Avenue location offers Women’s Health, Obstetrics, Gynecology, Bioidentical hormone treatment, wound care, and more.
Matt will begin seeing patients in early May. To schedule an appointment or for more information about our comprehensive healthcare services, please call 888-710-8220.
Healthy Connections Announces Clark Roberts, APRN, Joining Sheridan Clinic
Healthy Connections is proud to announce the addition of Clark Roberts, APRN, to the Sheridan Clinic team. Roberts brings a wealth of experience in family medicine and a strong commitment to providing compassionate patient care. His arrival aligns with Healthy Connections’ mission of offering accessible, high-quality healthcare services. Recently relocating to Sheridan, Roberts is eager to meet and serve the community.
Commitment to Community Healthcare
Roberts’ approach to healthcare is deeply rooted in the principles of compassion, excellence, and community service. With extensive experience in rural and underserved areas, he brings a deep understanding of the unique healthcare challenges and opportunities within community settings. “Joining the Sheridan community is incredibly meaningful to me,” said Roberts. “I look forward to forming lasting connections and ensuring that everyone has access to the quality care they deserve.”
Journey to Family Medicine
Inspired by the impact of nursing on a family member’s health, Roberts embarked on a path that led from being an ER nurse to achieving a Master’s degree in Nursing and specializing in family practice. This journey reflects his desire to positively influence the health and well-being of his patients. “Every patient presents a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on their health,” Roberts shared.
Excellence in Comprehensive Care
Roberts’ expertise spans a wide range of healthcare services, from primary care for all ages to specialized treatments such as Medication-assisted Treatment (MAT) and HIV care. He is committed to a holistic approach to healthcare, addressing the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of patient care. “Providing comprehensive, empathetic care is my primary goal, ensuring each patient receives the continuum of care they need,” he stated.
Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, expressed his enthusiasm for Roberts’ addition, “Clark Roberts is distinguished by his compassionate approach and dedication to healthcare. His broad expertise and patient-centric approach are tremendous assets to our clinic in Sheridan.”
A New Chapter in Healthcare and Community Engagement
Roberts has already relocated to Sheridan and is looking forward to becoming an active member of the community. “As a healthcare partner, I aim to provide personalized care that meets the diverse needs of our patients,” Roberts said, extending an invitation to the community to visit the Sheridan Clinic for their healthcare needs.
With the addition of Clark Roberts, APRN, Healthy Connections reinforces its commitment to improving community health through dedicated service and quality care. Roberts’ expertise and dedication to healthcare excellence and community engagement are set to make a significant impact on the Sheridan Clinic and the community it serves.
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.
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 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 to Clark Roberts APRN: A New Face of Care in Sheridan
We’re thrilled to introduce Family Nurse Practitioner Clark Roberts, APRN, as a recent addition to our team. As a new healthcare provider in Sheridan, Clark’s extensive experience and unique background 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.
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.
