Poplar House Clinic Named Medical Organization of the Year by American Diabetes Association

Rogers, AR (March 22, 2005) - Poplar House Clinic, Mercy Health System of Northwest Arkansas’ clinic for the uninsured and underinsured, has been named Medical Organization of the Year by the American Diabetes Association’s (ADA) northwest Arkansas chapter for its continued support in helping the ADA achieve its mission.

In 2004, Poplar House provided 370 early detection diabetes screenings, many at ADA events including the Dance for Your Health Event, which focuses on the at-risk Hispanic population. Additionally, Poplar House gave away more than 4,000 free units of diabetes medication for under-served patients.

These charitable acts did not go unnoticed by Ashley Spurlock, Market Manager of the northwest Arkansas ADA chapter. "Because one-third of the 18 million Americans affected by diabetes are not diagnosed, the early detection screenings are critical to help educate and improve the health of communities across the United States," Spurlock said. "As for the medications they have donated, this, too, is crucial, as the cost of diabetes care has increased more than 100 percent in the last five years. Without Poplar House’s help many in our community who cannot afford testing supplies, oral medication or insulin would have to choose food over medicines."

"We are so pleasantly surprised to receive this honor," said David Engle, Director of Poplar House, after receiving the award. "It's good to know that our efforts are making a positive impact in the community." Engle and Dr. Kay Morgan, the clinic's physician, were presented with the award at the ADA's Kiss a Pig Gala on February 25. It is the first time the award has been given in northwest Arkansas.

Mercy Health System of Northwest Arkansas, a not-for-profit faith-based health system, provides healthcare services to residents in northwest Arkansas and southwest Missouri. The System includes St. Mary’s Hospital, The Gardens at Osage Terrace Assisted Living Facility and Mercy Medical Clinics in 18 locations throughout northwest Arkansas and southwest Missouri, including Bella Vista Medical Center, Bentonville Medical Associates, Digestive Disease and Endoscopy Center in Bentonville, Garrett Goss Clinic in Bentonville, Garrett Goss Clinic in Centerton, Lowell Medical Center, Mercy Health Center in Bentonville, Pinnacle Women’s Health Care in Rogers, Mercy Heart Group in Rogers, Mercy Convenient Care and Business Health Clinic in Bentonville, Gravette Medical Associates, Noel Family Clinic, NWA Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic in Rogers, Pea Ridge Medical Office, Rogers Diagnostic Clinic, Rogers Medical Center, Rogers Pediatric Clinic, and Rogers Clinic for Women.