Primary care has long been a pillar of public health, but today, its role is more vital than ever. From managing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension to addressing the rising demand for mental health care, primary care providers are at the forefront of keeping our communities healthy.

This month marks the 30th anniversary of National Public Health Week (NPHW), and I’m especially moved by this year’s theme: “It Starts Here.” That message resonates deeply—it’s a perfect reflection of what we do every day in community health.

As a pharmacist, I’ve written many prescriptions over the years—but today, I’m writing one that doesn’t require a trip to the pharmacy, a co-pay, or even a glass of water to swallow. Rx: Laughter Sig: Take liberally. Refill as often as needed. Side effects may include better mood, lower blood pressure, and spontaneous joy. That’s right. On this April Fools’ Day, I’m prescribing laughter—not just because it’s fun, but because it’s good for your health.

(March 1, 2024) A contingent of Community Health Center representatives from Arkansas visited Washington in February, not just for fun,...

At the recent Rural Health Association of Arkansas conference, a Community Health Center leader shared how his organization has initiated...

From left to right: Congressman French Hill, Senator John Boozman, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Jodiane Tritt, Dr. Nirvana Manning,...

(October 30, 2023) Before judging someone suffering from substance use disorder, stop and think again. Reshape your perspective, said...

Supporters gather to tour the new Jefferson Comprehensive Care System clinic at Arkansas Baptist College October 18, 2023 To help ease...

Kevin Holmes (third from right) (October 11, 2023) Young Advocates and Ambassadors for Sexual Health is a new program designed to reduce...

Jefferson County Comprehensive Services Inc. provides high quality health care to the homeless at the Open Hands clinic in Little Rock.

Anthony Jackson says he sleeps better knowing that the Open Hands clinic is always there to help him. “This is a great place,” Jackson...

Monica Lindley (October 6, 2023) For Monica Lindley, CEO of Mid-Delta Health Systems, Community Health Centers are all about connecting...

OPINION | GUEST WRITER: Worth fighting for Community Health Centers vital by Lanita S. White Special to the Democrat-Gazette | June 9,...

October 6, 2023 COAL HILL – Rita Grigsby loves her new pharmacy. She lives in the tiny community of Hunt in western Johnson County. For...

(October 6, 2023) PARAGOULD – With more than 40 years in mental health, Bonnie White started as a case worker, experiencing first-hand...

(October 11, 2023) When Dr. Patrick Fitz-Gerald graduated from medical school, many classmates couldn’t wait to move to a big city and...

When her boss asked her to transfer to the clinic in Green Forrest, Abby Peerce didn’t hesitate. She didn’t even worry about an hour...

Desi Sims (October 11, 2023) Desi Sims knows what’s it like to be on the bottom. When patients at Lee County Cooperative Clinic come to...

Debbie Ackerson (with scissors) April 4, 2023 Boston Mountain Rural Health Center celebrated a grand opening of a new clinic in Conway,...

Dr. Kellee Farris (October 11, 2023) In Marianna, Lee County Cooperative Clinic recently broke ground on a new main clinic building....