If mental health and stress-related issues are cropping up in your life, UAMS’ AR-Connect is here to help.
AR-Connect is a program at UAMS that provides virtual care for Arkansans experiencing mental health and stress symptoms due to the COVID-19 pandemic with no out-of-pocket costs.
“AR-Connect came about because of COVID-19 and it has been very helpful for those dealing with the problems it has caused in their lives,” said Dr. G. Richard Smith, director of the UAMS Psychiatric Research Institute and chair of the Department of Psychiatry in the UAMS College of Medicine. “There are so many people across our state needing help and not knowing where to turn, particularly those worried about the effect COVID-19 is having on them and their loved ones. For them, AR-Connect has been a godsend.”
Launched in May, AR-Connect offers the opportunity to talk to a trained medical professional by telephone or live video for anyone dealing with anxiety, depression or substance abuse stemming from the pandemic.
Callers are screened by trained nurses and contacted by a therapist within 24 business hours if needed. Virtual appointments are conducted via telephone or live video with the ultimate goal being to find help for the patients in their home community.
The AR-Connect call center is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 501.526.3563 or 800.482.9921. The live video virtual clinic operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more info, head to the UAMS website.