Healthy Connections continues to strengthen Arkansas HIV Care patients can access by staying engaged with the latest clinical advancements and public health strategies. Recently, members of the Healthy Connections team attended the AETC South Central Conference, a regional event focused on improving HIV/AIDS care across the South Central United States.
Representing Healthy Connections at the conference were Ann Calandro, PharmD, Director of Pharmacy Services; Justin Wise; Valerie Cureton, Infection Control Officer; and John Singleton, HIV Case Manager. During the event, the team also connected with key public health partners, including Cynthia Castro, a Ryan White Program liaison with the Department of Health.
The AETC South Central Conference is part of a federally supported initiative designed to equip healthcare providers with the most current tools, treatment strategies, and care models for patients living with HIV. The conference brings together providers, pharmacists, case managers, and public health professionals to collaborate on improving outcomes, increasing access to care, and strengthening long-term patient support systems.
How Healthy Connections Provides Arkansas HIV Care Patients Can Access
For Healthy Connections, this work directly supports and enhances services already being delivered across the organization. Arkansas HIV Care patients need is available at all Healthy Connections medical locations, serving patients throughout Arkansas and fully integrated into primary care. This means patients can access testing, treatment, and ongoing support in the same setting where they receive their routine healthcare, helping reduce barriers and improve continuity of care.
This integrated, whole-person approach is critical to long-term success. Patients living with HIV benefit from coordinated care that includes medical providers, pharmacy support, infection control expertise, and case management. These services work together to support treatment adherence, regular follow-up, and long-term health stability.
Why Arkansas HIV Care Communities Need Matters
Conference sessions focused on key areas such as advancements in HIV treatment, medication adherence, patient retention, prevention strategies, and updates to the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program. These topics directly affect how Arkansas HIV Care providers deliver treatment and how patients stay engaged in care over time.
By participating in this conference, the Healthy Connections team is strengthening its ability to provide evidence-based care aligned with national standards while continuing to meet the needs of local communities. The knowledge gained helps ensure patients receive current treatment options, stronger care coordination, and support systems designed to help them stay in care and live healthier lives.
Integrated Primary Care Supports Arkansas HIV Care Patients Deserve
Multidisciplinary participation from Healthy Connections reflects the organization’s commitment to comprehensive care. Pharmacy services, infection control, and case management are essential components of effective HIV treatment, and collaboration across these areas helps create a consistent, high-quality patient experience.
Healthy Connections’ model is especially important because HIV services are integrated into primary care rather than isolated from the rest of a patient’s healthcare. That allows patients to receive support in a familiar medical setting while also improving access, convenience, and continuity.
Partnerships Help Expand Arkansas HIV Care Across the State
Partnerships with organizations like the Department of Health and the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program further strengthen this work by helping expand Arkansas HIV Care residents may not otherwise be able to access. These collaborations help connect patients with critical resources while supporting care that is accessible, affordable, and sustainable.
Healthy Connections has been caring for communities across Arkansas for more than 25 years, providing medical, dental, and behavioral health services built on the pillars of Community, Compassion, and Excellence. Continued participation in events like the AETC South Central Conference helps ensure that patients across the state benefit from a healthcare team that is informed, connected, and committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.
As healthcare continues to evolve, Healthy Connections remains focused on strengthening services, expanding access, and improving outcomes for patients across Arkansas, including those living with HIV. By continuing to invest in education, collaboration, and integrated primary care, Healthy Connections is helping advance Arkansas HIV Care communities need now and in the future.
