Healthy Connections is thrilled to introduce the newest member of our esteemed team, Sharon Meador, MD, who joins the Little Rock Midtown Clinic.
With an illustrious career spanning more than 40 years as an occupational medicine physician, Dr. Meador brings an unparalleled level of expertise and dedication to the clinic, aligning perfectly with our core values of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.
Dr. Meador’s qualifications extend far beyond the ordinary. She is a certified HIV Specialist recognized by the American Academy of HIV Medicine (AAHIVM), a distinction that highlights her unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional care in HIV prevention and treatment. Her achievement places her in an exclusive league of healthcare professionals devoted to ensuring the optimal health of those living with or at risk for HIV and related conditions.
“When I first saw and treated people with HIV, it was AIDS. We didn’t know what it even was, and it was a death sentence essentially. But the current treatments are wonderful, and the issues we’re seeing now with our folks living with HIV is they live so long, they get old people diseases like the rest of us, which is a great problem to have,” Dr. Meador said.
The clinic location at 1100 N. University Ave., #200, in Little Rock, features the Healthy Connections Community Health Network, Health For Life Clinic, Evolve Behavioral Health Services and Medication Management, and Noydeen Midtown.
Dr. Meador will see patients for Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), HIV, and PrEP.
“We are exceptionally proud to have Dr. Sharon Meador join our team. Her certification as an HIV Specialist by AAHIVM underscores her dedication to providing top-tier care,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc. “Her arrival marks a remarkable milestone for the Healthy Connections Little Rock Midtown Clinic.”
With Dr. Terry Jefferson and Dr. Absalom H. Tilley, the Healthy Connections Little Rock Midtown clinic is among the most experienced in central Arkansas in providing inclusive care for both the LGBTQ+ community and those seeking treatment for opioid addiction. This collaborative environment ensures patients receive comprehensive, top-quality medical services in an inclusive environment.
“Over the years, I’ve treated people living with HIV, transgender community folks, and people with substance abuse orders of all sorts,” Dr. Meador said. “That’s kind of my niche where I’m practicing now, and I love doing that.”
Healthy Connections is a Mena-based Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with locations throughout Central and Western Arkansas. The Community Health Network offers much-needed medical, dental, and behavioral health services and attempts to fill healthcare coverage gaps. The clinics accept Medicaid, ArKids 1st, Medicare, and most health insurance. There is also a sliding fee scale for patients without insurance who qualify.
“Especially in the Ryan White Program, patients don’t have other insurance. We try to take care of a lot of those needs without having to refer them to multiple places. Healthy Connections does that and it’s perfect,” Dr. Meador said.
Join us in celebrating the arrival of Dr. Sharon Meador, a distinguished addition to the healthcare landscape of Little Rock. For appointments or more information, please visit our website at www.healthy-connections.org or call us at 888-710-8220. Together, we look forward to serving the diverse healthcare needs of our community with excellence and compassion.
Healthy Connections Congratulates Susan Singleton, Finalist for Arkansas Business Nonprofit CFO of the Year 2023
Healthy Connections, a leading Federally-Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Western and Central Arkansas, extends its congratulations to Susan Singleton, Chief Financial Officer, for her outstanding achievement as a finalist for the prestigious Arkansas Business Nonprofit Organization CFO of the Year 2023 award.
Singleton’s impressive 26-year career and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on Healthy Connections and the healthcare community. Her financial leadership has been instrumental in the organization’s growth and its continued commitment to the core values of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.
“The healthcare industry, especially in the not-for-profit world, isn’t always just about budgets and numbers. It’s about the caring and the hope that we instill in the patients we see. The one person who has been dedicated and committed to doing just that is Susan Singleton. We are very proud of her nomination for this prestigious award,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc.
Singleton’s journey is a testament to personal and professional growth, where she has skillfully managed finances and operations, driving improvements in workflows, processes, and operational efficiencies, ultimately better positioning Healthy Connections to balance its mission and margin.
“Susan embodies an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. Her approach to financial management has elevated our ability to fulfill our mission, offering quality healthcare services to those we serve,” Calandro said.
Healthy Connections remains committed to its mission of providing accessible, high-quality healthcare services to individuals and families across Western and Central Arkansas.
Call 888-710-8220 for appointments and visit https://healthy-connections.org for more information.
About Healthy Connections: Healthy Connections is a Federally-Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with a 25-year history of providing quality medical, dental, and behavioral health services to communities in Western and Central Arkansas. The organization is guided by the principles of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.
Healthy Connections is excited to introduce the newest member of our healthcare team at the De Queen clinic, Autumn Morales, APRN.
Autumn Morales is a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner with a wealth of experience in De Queen, Sevier County, and the surrounding areas. With a strong commitment to quality healthcare, she is here to provide the best care to you and your family.
“I’ve known a little bit about Healthy Connections for a while,” Morales said. “I’ve known some of the good programs that they have, some of the sliding scale fees for patients that may be in underserved areas. And I think that’s a phenomenal thing, and I’m super excited to be able to serve patients that are in that area as well as all the other patients.”
Morales’ roots run deep in Southwest Arkansas, having lived here her entire life and graduating from Nashville High School. Her local ties and extensive nursing experience make her a valuable addition to our Healthy Connections family.
“I’ve always wanted to do healthcare,” Morales said. “It’s something I’ve been passionate about, and I’m dedicated to providing quality care for families in the De Queen area.”
Autumn and her husband, Hasler, have called De Queen home since 2016. They are actively involved in the community and their local church, New Life De Queen. Autumn is not just a healthcare provider but a community member who cares deeply about the well-being of her neighbors.
As part of Healthy Connections, Autumn Morales aligns perfectly with our three pillars: Community, Compassion, and Excellence. She embodies these principles by serving the community, showing deep compassion for her patients, and maintaining a commitment to excellence in healthcare.
The Healthy Connections De Queen clinic serves patients for primary care/family medicine, Medication-Assisted Treatment for opioid addiction, HIV/AIDS testing, treatment, and care, and more. It features providers who speak both English and Spanish including Carolin Hockersmith, APRN, and Angie Martin APRN. Morales speaks both English and some Spanish. She and Martin worked together at AmCare Clinic in De Queen.
“We are thrilled to welcome Autumn Morales to our De Queen clinic. Her passion for providing top-notch healthcare aligns perfectly with Healthy Connections’ mission to serve our community,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections, Inc. “With Angela Martin and Autumn Morales now on our De Queen clinic team, we have an amazing roster of providers dedicated to the health and well-being of our patients.”
The De Queen clinic, located at 1206 W. Collin Raye Drive, is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, catering to both pediatric and family medicine patients.
Healthy Connections accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and most health insurance. There is also a sliding fee scale for patients without insurance who qualify.
Healthy Connections is committed to providing excellent healthcare services to the De Queen community, and with Autumn Morales on board, we’re more prepared than ever to meet your healthcare needs. We look forward to serving you and your family.
In the battle against the flu, taking the right steps can mean the difference between a mild inconvenience and a severe, even life-threatening illness. One of the most crucial steps you can take to protect yourself and your community is to get vaccinated annually.
Here at Healthy Connections, we understand the importance of this preventive measure, and we’re dedicated to making it accessible to everyone. Our Community Health Network clinics across Arkansas are proud to offer flu shots, and we strive to ensure that cost is not a barrier to your health. The flu vaccine is free with most health insurance. We accept various forms of coverage, including Medicaid, ARKids 1st, Medicare, and most insurance plans. For those without insurance, we are making the vaccine accessible for just $35.
So, why should you choose Healthy Connections for your flu shot?
- Firstly, our experienced nurses administer the vaccine safely and effectively. Your health is in capable hands.
- Secondly, we understand that life can get busy. That’s why we offer convenient appointments designed to fit your schedule, including evening slots at select locations.
- Lastly, our commitment to affordable, high-quality care is unwavering. We believe that everyone deserves access to the best healthcare, regardless of their financial situation.
This year, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of the flu shot is magnified. Both the flu and COVID-19 share respiratory symptoms, and vaccination reduces your risk of contracting and spreading these illnesses.
In addition to COVID-19 concerns, consider these factors:
- Experts anticipate a more severe flu season.
- Some flu strains may be less responsive to the vaccine.
- Vaccination significantly lowers the risk of complications such as pneumonia.
- It provides protection for vulnerable populations, including young children, older adults, and individuals with chronic health conditions.
If you have any questions about the flu vaccine, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider. Ready to take the first step toward a healthier you? Call us at 888-710-8220 to schedule your appointment today.
Your health is our priority, and we’re here to keep you safe and well.
Healthy Connections’ Susan Singleton was named a finalist for Arkansas Business Nonprofit CFO of the Year
In the world of financial leadership, Susan Singleton’s journey stands as a testament to dedication and innovation. With an impressive career spanning 26 years, Singleton’s role as Chief Financial Officer of Healthy Connections, a Federally-Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Western and Central Arkansas, has earned her a coveted place as a finalist for the prestigious Arkansas Business Nonprofit Organization CFO of the Year 2023 award.
Singleton’s recognition is a result of her outstanding contributions. She stands alongside other distinguished financial leaders: Laine Harber from the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, Monique L. Sanders from the Arkansas Foodbank, and Britney Snell from the SHARE Foundation. Together, these exceptional individuals have set themselves apart and distinguished themselves among their peers in contention for this statewide accolade.
The winners of the Arkansas Business CFO of the Year 2023 award will be unveiled on Nov. 2 at the Wally Allen Ballroom at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock.
Singleton’s journey is a story of personal and professional growth. Over the past 4 years, she has made a significant impact at Healthy Connections, steering its financial growth while upholding the organization’s core values of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.
“In a nonprofit organization, there are many opportunities to step out of your comfort zone, grow, and learn,” Singleton reflects. “CFOs must be creative and strategic in managing finances. As a CFO with additional responsibilities in operations, opportunities exist for improvements in workflows, processes, and operational efficiencies throughout the organization. This, in turn, better positions the company to balance the mission and margin of the organization.”
Her strategic financial stewardship has not only driven Healthy Connections’ growth but also allowed the organization to provide comprehensive healthcare services to diverse communities, making a lasting impact on countless lives.
“With over two and a half decades of financial leadership experience and her dedicated 4-year journey with Healthy Connections, Susan embodies an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation,” said Tony Calandro, CEO of Healthy Connections. “Her approach to financial management has elevated our ability to fulfill our mission, offering quality healthcare services to those we serve.”
Singleton’s journey underscores the pivotal role of financial leadership in fostering growth and positive change. Her expertise and steadfast commitment play a crucial role in advancing Healthy Connections’ ongoing mission of providing accessible, high-quality healthcare services that enhance the health and well-being of individuals and families across Western and Central Arkansas.
Every August, Healthy Connections is excited as we celebrate National Health Center Week, a time of reflection, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to our mission of providing exceptional healthcare services to the central and western Arkansas communities. This year holds special significance for us as we commemorate our 25th anniversary of serving patients throughout the state.
Unveiling 25 Years of Compassionate Care
For a quarter of a century, Healthy Connections has been dedicated to delivering comprehensive medical, dental, and behavioral health services that address the diverse healthcare needs of our patients. What started as a vision has grown into a cornerstone of accessible and patient-centered care, touching the lives of countless individuals and families in Arkansas.
Since our inception, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to everyone who walks through our doors. Our team of skilled healthcare professionals is united by a shared passion for making a positive impact on the health and well-being of our communities. Whether it’s a routine check-up, dental care, behavioral health support, or community outreach, we are here to serve you with compassion and excellence.
National Health Center Week: August 6-12
National Health Center Week, observed from August 6-12, is a time to celebrate the vital role that community health centers play in fostering healthier communities and increasing access to care for all. At Healthy Connections, it’s an opportunity to express our gratitude to our patients, staff, and partners who have contributed to our success over the years.
During this special week, we invite you to join us in celebrating our 25th anniversary. It’s not just a time to look back at our accomplishments; it’s also a time to look forward to the future of healthcare in Arkansas.
Join the Celebration: How You Can Participate
- Come Celebrate with Us: Healthy Connections staff will be participating in the Samaritan Fields and Friends Event in De Queen on Aug. 11, and the Hot Springs Community Resource Fair on Aug. 12. Stop by, say hello, pick up some swag, and learn about the vital role we play in our communities.
- Schedule an Appointment: If you’re in need of medical, dental, or behavioral health services, we encourage you to reach out and schedule an appointment. Call us at 888-710-8220 to secure your spot and experience the care that has earned us the trust of our communities for 25 years.
- Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness about National Health Center Week and our 25th anniversary by sharing our story on social media. Use the hashtag #HealthyConnections25 to join the conversation and inspire others to prioritize their health.
- Support Accessible Healthcare: Consider making a contribution to our mission of providing accessible healthcare to all. Your support enables us to continue offering vital services to those who need them most.
- As we celebrate National Health Center Week and mark our 25th anniversary, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to our patients, staff, partners, and supporters. Your dedication and trust have been instrumental in our journey, and we look forward to many more years of serving the wonderful communities of central and western Arkansas.
Join us in this celebration of health, community, and compassion. Together, we can create a healthier and brighter future for all.
For appointments and inquiries, please call 888-710-8220.
