As we begin our second century of caring for our community, my heart is full of gratitude for our cherished Monadnock Community Hospital (MCH) family, including you, our supporters and friends. Your steadfast partnership and generosity have been the cornerstone of our achievements. Your volunteerism brings smiles to the faces of our patients and employees every day, and your philanthropic gifts help us to sustain and grow our services as we meet the needs of our community.
The advancements you will read about in this report reflect our commitment to excellence in healthcare and our passion for caring for the community that has supported us throughout the years. We have added some new services this past year to increase patient access, including our own gastroenterology practice, Monadnock Gastroenterology Associates. You will also read about spine care, minimally invasive carpal tunnel procedures, pediatric orthopedics, a new CT scanner, and a renovated outdoor turf area for our rehabilitation patients.
Recruitment and retention of the best talent is our number one strategic initiative, and we have recently welcomed new clinicians in both specialty and primary care, enhancing our capacity to offer you comprehensive health-care options close to home. I am so proud of every employee at MCH, and I witness daily the compassion they bring to every patient experience. Our employees will always be our most valuable asset.
Our success and growth are fueled by your investments in our mission to improve the health and well-being of our community. Thanks to you, our supporters, volunteers, employees, clinicians, patients, and friends, we are able to continue to fulfill that mission each and every day in the heart of the Monadnock Region. Thank you for your generosity and commitment to Monadnock Community Hospital. You are invaluable to us.
With heartfelt thanks for all you do,
Cynthia K. McGuire, FACHE
President and CEO
Monadnock Community Hospital
Our Foundation: Mission, Vision, and Values
Mission
Monadnock Community Hospital is committed to improving the health and well-being of our community.
Vision
We will elevate the health of our community by providing accessible, high-quality and value-based care.
Values
Compassion | Collaboration | Honesty | Respect
We are Monadnock Community Hospital.
From back to front: Armando Rangel, HR Generalist; Cathy Maki, Accountant; Dr. Dmitry Tarasevich, Monadnock Internal Medicine; Tausey Wolfe, Monadnock Behavioral Health Practice Manager; Corryn Nelson, Physical Therapist; Jennifer Norris, Patient Access Coordinator; Leah Hakala, Birthing Suite LNA
We are skilled experts, from across the world and right next door, who studied and trained to provide the Monadnock community with exceptional healthcare. We are committed staff members and volunteers, each contributing our own unique talents to serve patients and families. We are innovators, adopting advanced technology and techniques to elevate the care we provide. We are also neighbors, dedicated to improving the health of people in the places where we live. We’re more than just close-knit colleagues, we’re friends and family. Hundreds strong, we are embarking on our second century of care as stewards of a proud legacy, always moving forward in service to our community. And that’s something to celebrate.
Advanced Surgical Expertise Close to Home
Heather Bartels, MD and Patricia Shuster
Finding out that you need surgery can be overwhelming, but there are ways to ease the stress. MCH ensures surgical expertise for their patients conveniently close to home.
Patricia Shuster of Fitzwilliam knows this firsthand. When she required cataract surgery, she turned to the skilled surgeons of The Medical Eye Center, located at MCH. She says, “I’ve had other surgeries at MCH over the years because I trust the doctors and the OR team. It’s also convenient to me, being so close to where I live. When I went in, not only were all of the staff members professional, they were friendly—and funny. It really helped me to relax.”
The Medical Eye Center, which opened their Peterborough location in the spring of 2023, is just one of the premier practices serving patients at MCH’s state-of-the-art surgical facilities. It is here in Peterborough that talented and experienced surgeons and their surgical teams—including highly skilled nurses and surgical technologists — successfully perform general, orthopedic, gastrointestinal, ophthalmic, and OBGYN surgeries every day.
Whatever a patient’s surgical needs, our advanced operating rooms and high-quality, personal care are designed to take as much stress out of surgery as possible. “I’ve been telling everyone about my surgery,” says Patricia. “It was a great experience—I had worn glasses since I was a little girl, and now I don’t need to. I put my trust in Monadnock Community Hospital and will continue to do so.”
“It was a great experience… I put my trust in Monadnock Community Hospital and will continue to do so.”
Buttoned Up Surgical Care
Hiyam Makarios and Brian Kwitkin, MD
Dr. Brian Kwitkin, board-certified general surgeon, arrived at Monadnock Surgical Associates in 2023, and he is already having a positive impact on our community, and on the lives of people like Hiyam Makarios.
When the former high school teacher from Rindge became concerned by a painful bulge in her belly, she went to the Emergency Department at Monadnock Community Hospital. Our expert team diagnosed her with an umbilical (or belly button) hernia and referred her to Monadnock Surgical Associates.
“Dr. Kwitkin’s temperament was so calming which gave me confidence that I was in great hands. He showed me exactly what my condition was, explained how he was going to fix it, and answered all of my questions,” Hiyam says.
One benefit of having her surgery close to home was that Hiyam had connections to members of her care team. She explains, “One of the nurses is the mother of a former student of mine!” And she made new connections. “It turned out that my anesthesiologist is originally from Canada, just like me, so we were able to converse in French.” Hiyam praises the entire team for her exceptional care. “It’s because of Dr. Kwitkin and his nurses that I have been able to strengthen my stomach muscles and return to my normal life. Everything was perfect and I am proud to say Dr. Kwitkin was my surgeon.”
“Everything was perfect and I am proud to say Dr. Kwitkin was my surgeon.”
Clement Family Legacy
Karen Clement holding a painting of her grandmother, Margaret Adams Clement
The Clement Family legacy of leadership, volunteerism, and philanthropy at MCH has had an extraordinary impact on the Hospital for over 100 years. The story began in 1916, when Margaret Adams Clement began talking with her friend, Robert Parmelee, about donating his summer estate to be used to establish a hospital.
In 1918, Margaret was named one of eleven trustees who oversaw the planning and fundraising needed to transform the summer home into the Peterborough Hospital, which opened its doors in 1923. Margaret’s son, Everett Clement, and his wife Margaret (“Peg”) continued the family’s generosity with a bequest that helped to build the endowment as well as renovate The Birthing Suite. Today, Everett’s daughter, Karen Clement, and her husband, Richard Jordan, are the family’s third generation who have supported the Hospital. Their vision and generosity have helped to establish and sustain one of the finest small hospitals in New England.
Thank You to Our Parmelee Society
From left to right: Katharyn Ernst, Lee Ann Clark-Moore, Laura Gingras
The Parmelee Society recognizes the individuals who choose to include Monadnock Community Hospital in their wills or estate plans. Their legacy gifts ensure the accessibility of high-quality healthcare for their neighbors and loved ones for generations to come. MCH is honored by these generous supporters who demonstrate the spirit of community and share their devotion to our hospital well into the future.
Philanthropic gifts help us fulfill our mission to serve the community. Consider making a specific provision in your will for MCH. If you already have, let us know so we can honor you as a member of our Parmelee Society.
Invaluable Insight: The Patient & Family Advisory Council
Members of the Patient & Family Advisory Council from left to right: Lisa McInnis, MHP Practice Liaison; Molly Rajaniemi, Patient Experience Coordinator; Judy Unger-Clark; John Richards; Vicky Rank; and Denise Lord, VP of Organizational Performance. (Not pictured: Michael Greenough, Education and Emergency Management Specialist; Maria Brown, Oncology Medical Assistant; Walter Fleury; Madelyn Morris; Suzanne O’Brien; and Carol Hess)
At Monadnock Community Hospital, the care of our patients — as well as their loved ones — is the center of conversation for the Patient & Family Advisory Council (PFAC). Re-established in 2022, PFAC members have worked to represent the voice of the patients and families in MCH initiatives, while learning more about our organization and becoming positive, informed community ambassadors.
PFAC members provide personal feedback, helping MCH leaders to better understand patient perspectives and strengthen the relationship between MCH and the community we serve. To date, the PFAC has contributed to a variety of projects, including MCH’s 100th anniversary, patient educational materials, website pages, and consent forms. PFAC members have gained a deeper understanding of MCH’s programs and services, allowing the group to offer valuable input from a community perspective.
Making a Difference Together: Community Impact
MCH Provided $18,372,500 of Support to Our Community in 2023
Subsidized Health Services
(e.g., Chronic Health Programs, Emergency Department, Behavioral Health Services, etc.)
$8,926,000
Charity Care
(e.g., Financial Assistance Program)
$392,000
In-kind Donations
(e.g., Donations to Other Organizations, EMT Training, etc.)
$273,500
Community Programs
(e.g., Mobile Integrated Health, Parent Support Services, etc.)
$328,000
Public Programs
(e.g., Medicaid and Medicare Shortfall)
$8,453,000
A Brighter Space for Staff and Visitors
Window Shop volunteers standing left to right: Barbara Pendleton, Liz Kenney, Roon Frost, Toni Gildone (MCH Window Shop Manager and Volunteer Coordinator), Steffie Kyte, Shelly Zinsmeister, Judy Edelkind, and Carole Connor Sitting left to right: Connie Boyd and Louise Vickory
Since its inception, the Window Shop has played a pivotal role in supporting patient care initiatives at MCH. The volunteers who run the shop have raised significant funds for the hospital over the decades, donating most of them to help us improve patient care. Donations from the shop have facilitated significant improvement projects, including the implementation of an electronic medication dispensing tracking program, the establishment of the simulation lab offering a comprehensive training space for MCH staff and local EMTs, the provision of oversized gurneys for the operating room, and multiple enhancements to the Birthing Suite.
Toni Gildone, Volunteer Coordinator
During the pandemic, the Window Shop pivoted its focus to support MCH’s hardworking employees. A portion of the proceeds was redirected towards morale-boosting projects such as homemade dinner raffles and various initiatives aimed at providing support to the hospital staff. Other projects also include the heartwarming tradition of donating approximately 300 onesie t-shirts to babies born at MCH each year for almost two decades.
Proceeds have also paid for a number of Window Shop relocations over the decades and the new remodel.
Nancy Speeney, one of 22 who volunteer at the Shop today, says, “Being a volunteer here is incredibly fulfilling and I truly look forward to coming in every day.”
Window Shop volunteers standing left to right: Barbara Pendleton, Liz Kenney, Roon Frost, Toni Gildone (MCH Window Shop Manager and Volunteer Coordinator), Steffie Kyte, Shelly Zinsmeister, Judy Edelkind, and Carole Connor Sitting left to right: Connie Boyd and Louise Vickory
“Being a volunteer here is incredibly fulfilling…”
Thank You to Our Volunteers
Volunteer staff pictured: Gwyn Baldwin, Toni Gildone – Volunteer Coordinator and Window Shop Manager, Carole Connor and Linda Keenan.
Always Innovating
Since our founding, Monadnock Community Hospital has always sought out opportunities to expand our services by adding new techniques, new technologies, and new environments for care. Over the past year we have introduced cutting-edge surgical procedures, revitalized key services, incorporated advanced equipment, and designed spaces to aid healing.
Monadnock Gastroenterology Associates
This year, we introduced Monadnock Gastroenterology Associates. This new practice, led by Dr. Michael Gilbert, offers patients the latest care and treatment options for a wide range of digestive conditions and disorders affecting the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts.
Sports Rehabilitation Turf
As part of our recent renovation project to add 3,500 square feet of therapeutic space to our Rehabilitation Department at the Bond Wellness Center, we have installed outdoor athletic turf and rubberized matting. Here, patients will have the opportunity to enhance dynamic balance and agility through sport specific movements, such as executing a golf swing or lunging to reach a challenging pickleball.
Spine Care
Your spine is at the center of your body and your health, giving your body structure and protecting the root of your nervous system: your spinal cord. The Spine Care Team at Monadnock Orthopaedic Associates, led by Dr. Vache Hambardzumyan and Tom Quinn, PA-C, has introduced an array of spinal surgery procedures to address congenital and developmental deformities, degenerative conditions, and injuries—all with a focus on minimally invasive techniques.
CT Scanner
Thanks to the support of our donors, MCH Radiology is now home to a Toshiba 80-slice high-speed helical CT (computed tomography) scanner, able to produce exceptional quality images of any part of the body with very short scan time and at a lower dose of radiation. The new scanner is located adjacent to the emergency department which is especially useful for trauma cases in which time is of the essence.
Trigger Finger Release
Each year, more than 200,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with trigger finger—inflammation of a tendon in the hand, causing stiffness and pain in the affected finger. Some of those people are right here in the Monadnock Region. That’s why we’ve introduced minimally invasive Trigger Finger Release with Dr. Brad White, a new innovative surgical solution guided by ultrasound, to alleviate pain and get people back to full function faster than traditional surgeries.
Educational Opportunities
Since the pandemic had put community education offerings on hold, over the past year, MCH has begun to offer multiple education opportunities again, including the “Baby & Me” group, First Aid and CPR training, and field trips for local homeschooled children. Our Health and Wellness seminars have seen great attendance for a wide variety of topics. Additionally, our collaboration with local support groups, including AA, has offered a safe space to those seeking solace and recovery. Each initiative highlights our commitment to a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community.
Finding the Right Level of Care
Dr. Vache Hambardzumyan with Louise DelPapa
“I just moved normally,” says Louise DelPapa of New Ipswich, but what happened next was far from expected. As a result of her osteoporosis, or loss of bone mass due to aging, Louise suffered multiple compression fractures in her spine. The result was agony. “I’m very active,” she says, “and had just moved three cords of wood. Suddenly I couldn’t lie down, I couldn’t sit up, I couldn’t move right or left.”
She recalls, “Dr. Vache was very kind and compassionate, and was conservative with my care. After he explained the pros and cons of surgery, we decided to treat my condition nonsurgically. He kept encouraging me, assuring me that the fractures would be minimized, my pain would lessen, and my mobility would improve with a combination of medications and physical therapy. He was right!” In addition to physical therapy, Louise has been exercising with weights while taking vitamins and receiving a monthly injection that reduces fractures in women with osteoporosis after menopause.
“I was concerned about possible side effects,” she says, “but Dr. Vache explained that the risk was low and the benefits outweighed them.” Speaking of the benefits, Louise shares, “I walk 10,000 to 14,000 steps a day. Life is good now. I can do nearly everything I used to. I refer everyone to Monadnock Orthopaedic Associates and MCH—they have the solutions. I’m so glad they are right down the road.”
Dr. Vache Hambardzumyan with Louise DelPapa
“I walk 10,000 to 14,000 steps a day. Life is good now.”
Making Strides in Rehabilitative Excellence
From left to right: Essy Moverman, RRT, RCP, CTTS, Outpatient Pulmonary Coordinator; Bruce Barsalou; Dawne Beamer, Respiratory Therapist; Kiara Burek, Exercise Physiologist; Gabby Trust, Exercise Physiologist
In 2020, Bruce Barsalou knew he was in trouble. For the Deering resident, simply drawing a breath had gradually become a struggle. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), induced by decades of smoking, had landed him in the hospital more than once. It eventually led Bruce to being totally dependent on supplemental oxygen, in his late 50s. Bruce needed new lungs, but to qualify for a transplant at Massachusetts General Hospital, he needed to build stamina and lose weight. That’s what led him to the outpatient Pulmonary Fitness Program at Monadnock Community Hospital. There, our expert staff works with people like Bruce to safely expand their limits and reach their goals. “When I started the program,” he says, “I had gotten up to 280 pounds and I couldn’t walk more than 120 feet in six minutes without gasping for air.” Progress was slow at first, but Bruce says “my team kept me motivated, helping me understand what I needed to do. They told me that if I didn’t push myself, nothing was going to happen.”
He worked on the Nustep machine to increase his endurance, got a rollator walker to aid his mobility, and made changes to his diet. Eventually, he was able to walk 600 feet in six minutes and dropped 57 pounds—enough to qualify for the transplant list. “At my last test, I made it to 800 feet!” he proudly declares.
In November of 2023, he received a double lung transplant. Today, Bruce is living without oxygen and is regaining his independence. As he mends from surgery, he’s headed back to the hospital for post-surgery rehabilitation. “If you’re in the same situation as me,” he says, “definitely go to rehab, and do the work. When I first got there, I wasn’t motivated—‘How do you expect me to exercise when I can’t catch my breath?’ But they stuck with me, kept encouraging me, kept pushing me to try a little harder.” With that encouragement, Bruce is finally breathing easier about his future.
From left to right: Essy Moverman, RRT, RCP, CTTS, Outpatient Pulmonary Coordinator; Bruce Barsalou; Dawne Beamer, Respiratory Therapist; Kiara Burek, Exercise Physiologist; Gabby Trust, Exercise Physiologist
Today, Bruce is living without oxygen and is regaining his independence.
“With open arms, we welcome our newest clinicians not only for their skills but also for the new perspectives they bring to our legacy of care.”
– Cynthia K. McGuire, FACHE, President & CEO
Honoring Loved Ones: Gifts to Monadnock Community Hospital
One of the most meaningful ways to honor a special person or caregiver is to make a gift to Monadnock Community Hospital.
Honor the legacy of a loved one or memorialize a special person in your life with a gift to MCH.
Employee Generosity Shines
MCH Employees from left to right: Charles Trimble, Security; Cathy Maki, Finance; Pia Benet, Operating Room; Karen Aucella, Rehabilitation Services; and Jon Gullage, Imaging Services
In 2023, the year of the hospital’s centennial, a record number of employees participated in the annual Employee Giving Campaign! 271 employees raised a total of $25,000 for the following funds at MCH: Annual Fund, Reach Out & Read, Employee Resilience Committee, Peter Gosline Scholarship Fund, Monadnock Behavioral Health, and the Dr. Mark Luedke Education Fund.
Key Statistics
Overnight Admissions
1,122
Births
262
Emergency Room Visits
13,353
Surgical Cases
1,140
Endoscopy Procedures
951
Imaging Exams
33,581
Lab Tests
186,069
Physical, Occupational, and Speech Procedures
65,966
Physician Practice Visits
80,710
Monadnock Community Hospital is a not-for-profit health-care provider offering comprehensive health-care services to the Monadnock Region. Our Financial Assistance Program provides free or discounted care for those who qualify.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Communicators Group for their invaluable partnership in crafting our annual report.
Message From Cynthia K. McGuireOur Foundation: Mission, Vision, and ValuesWe are Monadnock Community HospitalAdvanced Surgical Expertise Close to HomeButtoned Up Surgical CareClement Family LegacyThank You to Our Parmelee SocietyInvaluable Insight: The Patient & Family Advisory CouncilMaking a Difference Together: Community ImpactA Brighter Space for Staff and VisitorsAlways InnovatingFinding the Right Level of CareMaking Strides in Rehabilitative ExcellenceWelcome New Medical StaffHonoring Loved OnesEmployee Generosity ShinesKey Statistics
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Dear Friends,
As we begin our second century of caring for our community, my heart is full of gratitude for our cherished Monadnock Community Hospital (MCH) family, including you, our supporters and friends. Your steadfast partnership and generosity have been the cornerstone of our achievements. Your volunteerism brings smiles to the faces of our patients and employees every day, and your philanthropic gifts help us to sustain and grow our services as we meet the needs of our community.
The advancements you will read about in this report reflect our commitment to excellence in healthcare and our passion for caring for the community that has supported us throughout the years. We have added some new services this past year to increase patient access, including our own gastroenterology practice, Monadnock Gastroenterology Associates. You will also read about spine care, minimally invasive carpal tunnel procedures, pediatric orthopedics, a new CT scanner, and a renovated outdoor turf area for our rehabilitation patients.
Recruitment and retention of the best talent is our number one strategic initiative, and we have recently welcomed new clinicians in both specialty and primary care, enhancing our capacity to offer you comprehensive health-care options close to home. I am so proud of every employee at MCH, and I witness daily the compassion they bring to every patient experience. Our employees will always be our most valuable asset.
Our success and growth are fueled by your investments in our mission to improve the health and well-being of our community. Thanks to you, our supporters, volunteers, employees, clinicians, patients, and friends, we are able to continue to fulfill that mission each and every day in the heart of the Monadnock Region. Thank you for your generosity and commitment to Monadnock Community Hospital. You are invaluable to us.
With heartfelt thanks for all you do,
Cynthia K. McGuire, FACHE
President and CEO
Monadnock Community Hospital
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Mission
Monadnock Community Hospital is committed to improving the health and well-being of our community.
Vision
We will elevate the health of our community by providing accessible, high-quality and value-based care.
Values
Compassion | Collaboration | Honesty | Respect
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[0] => [caption id="attachment_37840" align="aligncenter" width="780"] From back to front: Armando Rangel, HR Generalist; Cathy Maki, Accountant; Dr. Dmitry Tarasevich, Monadnock Internal Medicine; Tausey Wolfe, Monadnock Behavioral Health Practice Manager; Corryn Nelson, Physical Therapist; Jennifer Norris, Patient Access Coordinator; Leah Hakala, Birthing Suite LNA[/caption]
We are skilled experts, from across the world and right next door, who studied and trained to provide the Monadnock community with exceptional healthcare. We are committed staff members and volunteers, each contributing our own unique talents to serve patients and families. We are innovators, adopting advanced technology and techniques to elevate the care we provide. We are also neighbors, dedicated to improving the health of people in the places where we live. We’re more than just close-knit colleagues, we’re friends and family. Hundreds strong, we are embarking on our second century of care as stewards of a proud legacy, always moving forward in service to our community. And that’s something to celebrate.
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Finding out that you need surgery can be overwhelming, but there are ways to ease the stress. MCH ensures surgical expertise for their patients conveniently close to home.
Patricia Shuster of Fitzwilliam knows this firsthand. When she required cataract surgery, she turned to the skilled surgeons of The Medical Eye Center, located at MCH. She says, “I’ve had other surgeries at MCH over the years because I trust the doctors and the OR team. It’s also convenient to me, being so close to where I live. When I went in, not only were all of the staff members professional, they were friendly—and funny. It really helped me to relax.”
The Medical Eye Center, which opened their Peterborough location in the spring of 2023, is just one of the premier practices serving patients at MCH’s state-of-the-art surgical facilities. It is here in Peterborough that talented and experienced surgeons and their surgical teams—including highly skilled nurses and surgical technologists — successfully perform general, orthopedic, gastrointestinal, ophthalmic, and OBGYN surgeries every day.
Whatever a patient’s surgical needs, our advanced operating rooms and high-quality, personal care are designed to take as much stress out of surgery as possible. “I’ve been telling everyone about my surgery,” says Patricia. “It was a great experience—I had worn glasses since I was a little girl, and now I don’t need to. I put my trust in Monadnock Community Hospital and will continue to do so.”
“It was a great experience... I put my trust in Monadnock Community Hospital and will continue to do so.”
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Dr. Brian Kwitkin, board-certified general surgeon, arrived at Monadnock Surgical Associates in 2023, and he is already having a positive impact on our community, and on the lives of people like Hiyam Makarios.
When the former high school teacher from Rindge became concerned by a painful bulge in her belly, she went to the Emergency Department at Monadnock Community Hospital. Our expert team diagnosed her with an umbilical (or belly button) hernia and referred her to Monadnock Surgical Associates.
“Dr. Kwitkin’s temperament was so calming which gave me confidence that I was in great hands. He showed me exactly what my condition was, explained how he was going to fix it, and answered all of my questions,” Hiyam says.
One benefit of having her surgery close to home was that Hiyam had connections to members of her care team. She explains, “One of the nurses is the mother of a former student of mine!” And she made new connections. “It turned out that my anesthesiologist is originally from Canada, just like me, so we were able to converse in French.” Hiyam praises the entire team for her exceptional care. “It’s because of Dr. Kwitkin and his nurses that I have been able to strengthen my stomach muscles and return to my normal life. Everything was perfect and I am proud to say Dr. Kwitkin was my surgeon.”
“Everything was perfect and I am proud to say Dr. Kwitkin was my surgeon.”
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The Clement Family legacy of leadership, volunteerism, and philanthropy at MCH has had an extraordinary impact on the Hospital for over 100 years. The story began in 1916, when Margaret Adams Clement began talking with her friend, Robert Parmelee, about donating his summer estate to be used to establish a hospital.
In 1918, Margaret was named one of eleven trustees who oversaw the planning and fundraising needed to transform the summer home into the Peterborough Hospital, which opened its doors in 1923. Margaret’s son, Everett Clement, and his wife Margaret (“Peg”) continued the family’s generosity with a bequest that helped to build the endowment as well as renovate The Birthing Suite. Today, Everett’s daughter, Karen Clement, and her husband, Richard Jordan, are the family’s third generation who have supported the Hospital. Their vision and generosity have helped to establish and sustain one of the finest small hospitals in New England.
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The Parmelee Society recognizes the individuals who choose to include Monadnock Community Hospital in their wills or estate plans. Their legacy gifts ensure the accessibility of high-quality healthcare for their neighbors and loved ones for generations to come. MCH is honored by these generous supporters who demonstrate the spirit of community and share their devotion to our hospital well into the future.
Philanthropic gifts help us fulfill our mission to serve the community. Consider making a specific provision in your will for MCH. If you already have, let us know so we can honor you as a member of our Parmelee Society.
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[0] => Invaluable Insight: The Patient & Family Advisory Council
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[0] => [caption id="attachment_37834" align="aligncenter" width="780"] Members of the Patient & Family Advisory Council from left to right: Lisa McInnis, MHP Practice Liaison; Molly Rajaniemi, Patient Experience Coordinator; Judy Unger-Clark; John Richards; Vicky Rank; and Denise Lord, VP of Organizational Performance. (Not pictured: Michael Greenough, Education and Emergency Management Specialist; Maria Brown, Oncology Medical Assistant; Walter Fleury; Madelyn Morris; Suzanne O’Brien; and Carol Hess)[/caption]
At Monadnock Community Hospital, the care of our patients — as well as their loved ones — is the center of conversation for the Patient & Family Advisory Council (PFAC). Re-established in 2022, PFAC members have worked to represent the voice of the patients and families in MCH initiatives, while learning more about our organization and becoming positive, informed community ambassadors.
PFAC members provide personal feedback, helping MCH leaders to better understand patient perspectives and strengthen the relationship between MCH and the community we serve. To date, the PFAC has contributed to a variety of projects, including MCH’s 100th anniversary, patient educational materials, website pages, and consent forms. PFAC members have gained a deeper understanding of MCH’s programs and services, allowing the group to offer valuable input from a community perspective.
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[0] => Making a Difference Together: Community Impact
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MCH Provided $18,372,500 of Support to Our Community in 2023
Subsidized Health Services
(e.g., Chronic Health Programs, Emergency Department, Behavioral Health Services, etc.)
$8,926,000
Charity Care
(e.g., Financial Assistance Program)
$392,000
In-kind Donations
(e.g., Donations to Other Organizations, EMT Training, etc.)
$273,500
Community Programs
(e.g., Mobile Integrated Health, Parent Support Services, etc.)
$328,000
Public Programs
(e.g., Medicaid and Medicare Shortfall)
$8,453,000
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[0] => A Brighter Space for Staff and Visitors
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[0] => [caption id="attachment_37832" align="aligncenter" width="780"] Window Shop volunteers standing left to right: Barbara Pendleton, Liz Kenney, Roon Frost, Toni Gildone (MCH Window Shop Manager and Volunteer Coordinator), Steffie Kyte, Shelly Zinsmeister, Judy Edelkind, and Carole Connor Sitting left to right: Connie Boyd and Louise Vickory[/caption]
Since its inception, the Window Shop has played a pivotal role in supporting patient care initiatives at MCH. The volunteers who run the shop have raised significant funds for the hospital over the decades, donating most of them to help us improve patient care. Donations from the shop have facilitated significant improvement projects, including the implementation of an electronic medication dispensing tracking program, the establishment of the simulation lab offering a comprehensive training space for MCH staff and local EMTs, the provision of oversized gurneys for the operating room, and multiple enhancements to the Birthing Suite.
[caption id="attachment_37833" align="alignleft" width="271"] Toni Gildone, Volunteer Coordinator[/caption]
During the pandemic, the Window Shop pivoted its focus to support MCH’s hardworking employees. A portion of the proceeds was redirected towards morale-boosting projects such as homemade dinner raffles and various initiatives aimed at providing support to the hospital staff. Other projects also include the heartwarming tradition of donating approximately 300 onesie t-shirts to babies born at MCH each year for almost two decades.
Proceeds have also paid for a number of Window Shop relocations over the decades and the new remodel.
Nancy Speeney, one of 22 who volunteer at the Shop today, says, “Being a volunteer here is incredibly fulfilling and I truly look forward to coming in every day.”
Window Shop volunteers standing left to right: Barbara Pendleton, Liz Kenney, Roon Frost, Toni Gildone (MCH Window Shop Manager and Volunteer Coordinator), Steffie Kyte, Shelly Zinsmeister, Judy Edelkind, and Carole Connor Sitting left to right: Connie Boyd and Louise Vickory
“Being a volunteer here is incredibly fulfilling...”
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[0] => Thank You to Our Volunteers
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[0] => [caption id="attachment_37853" align="aligncenter" width="780"] Volunteer staff pictured: Gwyn Baldwin, Toni Gildone - Volunteer Coordinator and Window Shop Manager, Carole Connor and Linda Keenan.[/caption]
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[0] => Since our founding, Monadnock Community Hospital has always sought out opportunities to expand our services by adding new techniques, new technologies, and new environments for care. Over the past year we have introduced cutting-edge surgical procedures, revitalized key services, incorporated advanced equipment, and designed spaces to aid healing.
Monadnock Gastroenterology Associates
This year, we introduced Monadnock Gastroenterology Associates. This new practice, led by Dr. Michael Gilbert, offers patients the latest care and treatment options for a wide range of digestive conditions and disorders affecting the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts.
Sports Rehabilitation Turf
As part of our recent renovation project to add 3,500 square feet of therapeutic space to our Rehabilitation Department at the Bond Wellness Center, we have installed outdoor athletic turf and rubberized matting. Here, patients will have the opportunity to enhance dynamic balance and agility through sport specific movements, such as executing a golf swing or lunging to reach a challenging pickleball.
Spine Care
Your spine is at the center of your body and your health, giving your body structure and protecting the root of your nervous system: your spinal cord. The Spine Care Team at Monadnock Orthopaedic Associates, led by Dr. Vache Hambardzumyan and Tom Quinn, PA-C, has introduced an array of spinal surgery procedures to address congenital and developmental deformities, degenerative conditions, and injuries—all with a focus on minimally invasive techniques.
CT Scanner
Thanks to the support of our donors, MCH Radiology is now home to a Toshiba 80-slice high-speed helical CT (computed tomography) scanner, able to produce exceptional quality images of any part of the body with very short scan time and at a lower dose of radiation. The new scanner is located adjacent to the emergency department which is especially useful for trauma cases in which time is of the essence.
Trigger Finger Release
Each year, more than 200,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with trigger finger—inflammation of a tendon in the hand, causing stiffness and pain in the affected finger. Some of those people are right here in the Monadnock Region. That’s why we’ve introduced minimally invasive Trigger Finger Release with Dr. Brad White, a new innovative surgical solution guided by ultrasound, to alleviate pain and get people back to full function faster than traditional surgeries.
Educational Opportunities
Since the pandemic had put community education offerings on hold, over the past year, MCH has begun to offer multiple education opportunities again, including the “Baby & Me” group, First Aid and CPR training, and field trips for local homeschooled children. Our Health and Wellness seminars have seen great attendance for a wide variety of topics. Additionally, our collaboration with local support groups, including AA, has offered a safe space to those seeking solace and recovery. Each initiative highlights our commitment to a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community.
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[0] => Finding the Right Level of Care
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[0] => [caption id="attachment_37828" align="aligncenter" width="780"] Dr. Vache Hambardzumyan with Louise DelPapa[/caption]
“I just moved normally,” says Louise DelPapa of New Ipswich, but what happened next was far from expected. As a result of her osteoporosis, or loss of bone mass due to aging, Louise suffered multiple compression fractures in her spine. The result was agony. “I’m very active,” she says, “and had just moved three cords of wood. Suddenly I couldn’t lie down, I couldn’t sit up, I couldn’t move right or left.”
After an X-ray at Monadnock Community Hospital revealed the fractures, she found herself at Monadnock Orthopaedic Associates with Dr. Vache Hambardzumyan.
She recalls, “Dr. Vache was very kind and compassionate, and was conservative with my care. After he explained the pros and cons of surgery, we decided to treat my condition nonsurgically. He kept encouraging me, assuring me that the fractures would be minimized, my pain would lessen, and my mobility would improve with a combination of medications and physical therapy. He was right!” In addition to physical therapy, Louise has been exercising with weights while taking vitamins and receiving a monthly injection that reduces fractures in women with osteoporosis after menopause.
“I was concerned about possible side effects,” she says, “but Dr. Vache explained that the risk was low and the benefits outweighed them.” Speaking of the benefits, Louise shares, “I walk 10,000 to 14,000 steps a day. Life is good now. I can do nearly everything I used to. I refer everyone to Monadnock Orthopaedic Associates and MCH—they have the solutions. I’m so glad they are right down the road.”
Dr. Vache Hambardzumyan with Louise DelPapa
“I walk 10,000 to 14,000 steps a day. Life is good now.”
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[0] => Making Strides in Rehabilitative Excellence
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[0] => [caption id="attachment_37829" align="aligncenter" width="780"] From left to right: Essy Moverman, RRT, RCP, CTTS, Outpatient Pulmonary Coordinator; Bruce Barsalou; Dawne Beamer, Respiratory Therapist; Kiara Burek, Exercise Physiologist; Gabby Trust, Exercise Physiologist[/caption]
In 2020, Bruce Barsalou knew he was in trouble. For the Deering resident, simply drawing a breath had gradually become a struggle. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), induced by decades of smoking, had landed him in the hospital more than once. It eventually led Bruce to being totally dependent on supplemental oxygen, in his late 50s. Bruce needed new lungs, but to qualify for a transplant at Massachusetts General Hospital, he needed to build stamina and lose weight. That’s what led him to the outpatient Pulmonary Fitness Program at Monadnock Community Hospital. There, our expert staff works with people like Bruce to safely expand their limits and reach their goals. “When I started the program,” he says, “I had gotten up to 280 pounds and I couldn’t walk more than 120 feet in six minutes without gasping for air.” Progress was slow at first, but Bruce says “my team kept me motivated, helping me understand what I needed to do. They told me that if I didn’t push myself, nothing was going to happen.”
He worked on the Nustep machine to increase his endurance, got a rollator walker to aid his mobility, and made changes to his diet. Eventually, he was able to walk 600 feet in six minutes and dropped 57 pounds—enough to qualify for the transplant list. “At my last test, I made it to 800 feet!” he proudly declares.
In November of 2023, he received a double lung transplant. Today, Bruce is living without oxygen and is regaining his independence. As he mends from surgery, he’s headed back to the hospital for post-surgery rehabilitation. “If you’re in the same situation as me,” he says, “definitely go to rehab, and do the work. When I first got there, I wasn’t motivated—‘How do you expect me to exercise when I can’t catch my breath?’ But they stuck with me, kept encouraging me, kept pushing me to try a little harder.” With that encouragement, Bruce is finally breathing easier about his future.
From left to right: Essy Moverman, RRT, RCP, CTTS, Outpatient Pulmonary Coordinator; Bruce Barsalou; Dawne Beamer, Respiratory Therapist; Kiara Burek, Exercise Physiologist; Gabby Trust, Exercise Physiologist
Today, Bruce is living without oxygen and is regaining his independence.
“With open arms, we welcome our newest clinicians not only for their skills but also for the new perspectives they bring to our legacy of care.”
- Cynthia K. McGuire, FACHE, President & CEO
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[0] => Honoring Loved Ones: Gifts to Monadnock Community Hospital
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[0] => One of the most meaningful ways to honor a special person or caregiver is to make a gift to Monadnock Community Hospital.
Honor the legacy of a loved one or memorialize a special person in your life with a gift to MCH.
[gallery columns="4" link="none" ids="37825,37824,37823,37821,37820,37819,37843" orderby="rand"]
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[0] => [caption id="attachment_37826" align="aligncenter" width="780"] MCH Employees from left to right: Charles Trimble, Security; Cathy Maki, Finance; Pia Benet, Operating Room; Karen Aucella, Rehabilitation Services; and Jon Gullage, Imaging Services[/caption]
In 2023, the year of the hospital’s centennial, a record number of employees participated in the annual Employee Giving Campaign! 271 employees raised a total of $25,000 for the following funds at MCH: Annual Fund, Reach Out & Read, Employee Resilience Committee, Peter Gosline Scholarship Fund, Monadnock Behavioral Health, and the Dr. Mark Luedke Education Fund.
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Overnight Admissions
1,122
Births
262
Emergency Room Visits
13,353
Surgical Cases
1,140
Endoscopy Procedures
951
Imaging Exams
33,581
Lab Tests
186,069
Physical, Occupational, and Speech Procedures
65,966
Physician Practice Visits
80,710
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[0] => Monadnock Community Hospital is a not-for-profit health-care provider offering comprehensive health-care services to the Monadnock Region. Our Financial Assistance Program provides free or discounted care for those who qualify.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Communicators Group for their invaluable partnership in crafting our annual report.
Download the MCH 2024 Annual Report as a PDF
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[0] => Our 2024 Community Report showcases our mission, innovative advancements, and heartfelt gratitude to our community.
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MCH Provided $18,372,500 of Support to Our Community in 2023
