Berkshire Health Systems

03/31/2026

Dr. Ashley Clancy Gagnon, an audiologist, has led the successful implementation of a Cochlear Implant program at Berkshire Medical Center. Through her advanced training and leadership, BMC became the first hospital in Massachusetts to perform anatomy-based cochlear implant fitting using X-ray planning, a remarkable achievement.

Ashley’s dedication does not stop at innovation. A recent patient shared this heartfelt feedback after working with her: “I just wanted to share that your audiologist, Ashley Clancy Gagnon, is the best. She has gone above and beyond in helping me get in touch with Cochlear Americas [hearing technology company] for an upgrade to my processors. It’s been tough, and she has not given up.”

This is a wonderful example of how compassion and excellence come to life through our colleagues. Thank you, Ashley, for your commitment to our patients!

03/27/2026

BHS wants to share our congratulations to the winners of the Bay State Games' hockey 60+ group and 40+ group!

At BHS, we believe movement, teamwork, and community make us stronger, which is why we’re proud to sponsor the Bay State Games. Learn more about how we support our community at berkshirehealthsystems.org/community

03/26/2026

Every March 19, Certified Nurses Day gives us a special reason to pause and recognize something our teams see every day: when a nurse chooses to earn and maintain national board certification, patients benefit. Certification reflects nursing professionalism, excellence, service, and a commitment to the highest standards of specialty practice, and it strengthens outcomes across our health system and communities.

Nursing certification is more than a credential; it’s a visible promise of expertise, lifelong learning, and evidence-based practice. Certified Nurses bring specialized knowledge to the bedside, elevate team confidence, and help drive safer care and better patient outcomes.

Thank you to all the nurses for your dedication and leadership! You set a powerful example for our profession. If you’re considering certification, I encourage you to explore this meaningful step in your professional journey. Our organization is committed to supporting your growth through education, resources, and peer encouragement.

03/25/2026

We want to share our congratulations to the BHS employees who were awardees of Berkshire Community College's 2026 40 Under 40 Awards!

40 Under Forty is an annual celebration of people under the age of 40 in the Berkshires who are dedicated to supporting our community. Join us in sharing congratulations to the four BHS employees who were honored:

🏆 Dr. Sheetal Manerkar, Chief Internal Medicine Resident at Berkshire Medical Center
🏆 Alex Hernandez, Lead Medical Interpreter
🏆 Kate Maloy, Senior Director of Specialty Nursing at Berkshire Medical Center
🏆 Christa Gariepy, Director of Primary Care Operations

03/24/2026

We’re proud to recognize Carlos Salazar, Maintenance Supervisor at Fairview Hospital, for his exceptional leadership and dedication during the big winter storm in January. With over 25 years of service, Carlos continues to set the standard for professionalism, reliability, and care for our hospital community.

During the blizzard, Carlos’s quick thinking and hands‑on expertise prevented an infrastructure emergency at the 10 Maple Street, Great Barrington location. When heating failed, he quickly identified frozen pipes, restored heat, and also deployed his team to keep access points to Fairview Hospital clear, ensuring safety for patients and staff. Throughout the worst of the storm, Carlos worked alone at the 10 Maple site to stabilize the building and protect critical infrastructure.

Thanks to his calm under pressure and technical skill, operations continued without disruption, and repairs were swiftly completed. Carlos’s actions reflect not only technical excellence but a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to our mission. His efforts, alongside the entire maintenance team, protected hospital assets, supported uninterrupted patient care, and exemplified what it truly means to be Caring, Committed, and Completely Awesome.

03/23/2026

This Colon Cancer Awareness Month, make your health a priority by taking care of your colon! The best thing you can do for your body is to stay up to date with your screenings and contact your healthcare provider with any concerns.

Rates of colorectal cancer are rising among working-age adults, making it more important than ever to pay attention to your health and schedule routine screenings. Having regular colorectal cancer screenings remains the most effective way to reduce risk, while innovative technologies are making these screenings even more effective.

Learn more about how artificial intelligence is transforming gastroenterology in this month's health take-away by Dr. James Curtiss, a gastroenterologist at BHS: https://www.berkshirehealthsystems.org/news/march-is-colorectal-cancer-awareness-month/

03/20/2026

“We are still one of the few places, I think, in the country that has actually reopened a hospital. A lot of them are doing standalone emergency services, but not full hospital care”

BHS President & CEO Darlene Rodowicz and Congressman Richard Neal recently convened to discuss the state of health care and what changes in federal health policy mean for families, hospitals, and local economies.

Learn about what was discussed during the panel on our website: https://www.berkshirehealthsystems.org/news/congressman-neal-and-president-ceo-rodowicz-highlight-coverage-losses-and-federal-health-uncertainty/

03/19/2026

Join BHS at the Clarksburg Community Center on March 23rd for a free workshop on navigating the patient portal!

See more information here: https://clarksburgma.gov/digital-workshop-with-berkshire-health-systems

First up in the Digital Workshop Series at the Clarksburg Community Center -

Join us for a free, hands-on digital workshop with Berkshire Health Systems about navigating the patient portal.

When: Monday, March 23, 10:00–11:00 AM
Where: 712 West Cross Road, Town of Clarksburg Massachusetts

This event is open to the public — snacks and refreshments provided by the Clarksburg 60+ Center. All are welcome!

See more event info on the Clarksburg Town Calendar: https://clarksburgma.gov/calendar

03/19/2026

Join BHS at the David and Joyce Milne Public Library on Thursday, March 19, 2026, to learn about the healthcare services provided close to home here in the Northern Berkshires.

Laurie Lamarre, Vice President of Berkshire Health Systems and Chief Operating Officer of North Adams Regional Hospital, will present on what’s new and how these local services can better serve you and your family.

Learn more about the event on the David and Joyce Milne Public Library website: https://milne.librarycalendar.com/event/talk-berkshire-health-systems-north-county-5469

03/17/2026

We would like to recognize someone whose generosity cannot be measured simply in numbers, though the numbers alone are truly extraordinary: For many years, our own Gilles Laframboise has quietly and consistently donated multiple gallons of platelets and red blood cells. Not once. Not occasionally. But year after year. Each donation represents time taken out of a busy life, a willingness to show up again and again, and a deep belief that helping others truly matters.

Platelets are often referred to as “liquid gold.” They are costly to purchase at nearly $800 per pint, and without a ready supply, patients may have to wait for this lifesaving product to be delivered. Red blood cells are equally critical to the health and safety of our community. BHS is incredibly fortunate to have a hospital-based Blood Donor Center that supports this essential work.

On behalf of everyone whose life has been touched by Gilles' generosity, and on behalf of all of us, BHS wants to share our deepest gratitude and respect.

03/16/2026

BHS wants to share our appreciation to everyone who participated in Colon Cancer Awareness Day on March 6th by wearing blue!

Colon cancer awareness is essential because early detection and screening can save lives. Showing your support and sharing knowledge about colon cancer and screening can help spark meaningful conversations and remind others of the importance of staying proactive about their health.

Congrats to our three winners from who wore their best blue outfits in recognition of 💙

03/12/2026

The Berkshire Visiting Nurses Association (BVNA) team recently demonstrated what it truly means to be Caring, Committed, and Completely Awesome through their successful Department of Public Health (DPH) re-certification survey.

Every three years, BVNA undergoes a comprehensive, three-day survey process to ensure continued compliance with CMS Conditions of Participation. During this time, surveyors:
-Observed care in the field
-Conducted extensive reviews of policies and procedures
-Evaluated quality initiatives and staff training

Thanks to the dedication, preparation, and professionalism of the entire BVNA team, all standards and expectations were met.

This reflects the team’s unwavering commitment to excellence, quality, and compassionate care every day, not just during a survey. We are grateful for the vital role the BVNA team plays in improving the health and wellness of our patients and community. Your hard work, collaboration, and commitment truly make a difference.