Your Hospital Newsletter – November 2025

Exterior of Monadnock Community Hospital at dusk with large glass windows lit from inside; overlaid text reads "Your Hospital" in bold white script.
Your Hospital Newsletter – November 2025
Empowering You to Thrive

From Us to You

Scenic autumn landscape featuring a red barn, colorful fall foliage, and calm water reflecting the vibrant trees, representing the Monadnock region in fall.

This season, we’re especially grateful for the trust you place in Monadnock Community Hospital. Inside this newsletter, you’ll find resources to support your health, celebrate our dedicated team, and share in the spirit of the holidays.


Community Highlights


Supporting Community Care: MCH Donates Former Mobile Vaccine RV to Fire Chiefs Association

Group of Monadnock Community Hospital and local fire department members standing in front of a large white RV, marking the donation of the vehicle to the Fire Chiefs Association.

We are pleased to donate the RV that was used during the Covid-19 pandemic for vaccinating the community to the Monadnock Area Fire Chiefs’ Association. This vehicle that once helped protect community health will now continue that mission by supporting the region’s first responders.

During the pandemic, the RV played a critical role in expanding access to important vaccinations during the height of Covid-19. Today, as this vehicle transitions to its new role, the RV will serve as a mobile rehabilitation unit, providing essential support to first responders at prolonged emergency scenes. The unit can be equipped with cooling and heating systems, seating, coolers for water, and privacy shelters to create a safe and comfortable space for first responders to rest, recover, and rehydrate while at emergency incidents.

“When looking for a meaningful way to repurpose this underutilized resource, we wanted to continue the spirit of community service it represented during such a pivotal time,” said Cynthia McGuire, President & CEO of Monadnock Community Hospital. “This RV helped protect our community then, and we’re proud that it will now support those who protect us every day. Partnering with the Monadnock Area Fire Chiefs’ Association reflects our shared commitment to the health and wellbeing of the people we serve. We truly are one community.”

The donation reflects MCH’s ongoing commitment to meeting community needs beyond the walls of the hospital. The partnership between the hospital and local fire departments highlights how organizations throughout the Monadnock Region come together to ensure the safety and wellness of all residents.


Important Update: Jaffrey Location Undergoing Renovations

Jaffrey Family Medicine offering primary care services at Monadnock Community Hospital

We are pleased to share that beginning in November, Jaffrey Family Medicine (JFM) and Jaffrey Physical Therapy (JPT) will undergo renovations to enhance patient care and improve facilities. To ensure continuity of services, JFM and JPT providers will be temporarily relocated to ensure continuity of care as follows:

Effective November 17th, 2025

  • Scott Smith, DO and Jennifer Romanelli, APRN and Douglas Schuster, DO will see patients at Rindge Family Practice, 145 Route 202, Rindge, NH 03461.

Effective November 24th, 2025

  • Douglas Schuster, DO; Cheryl Evans, APRN; and Lauren Stacy, APRN will see patients at New Ipswich Family Medicine, 821 Turnpike Road, New Ipswich, NH 03071.
  • Jaffrey Physical Therapy will also temporarily relocate to the New Ipswich Family Medicine location.

Important Notes:

  • JFM and JPT clinicians, care teams, and services will remain the same during this renovation period
  • Phone numbers for the practices will not change:
    Jaffrey Family Medicine: 603-532-8775
    Jaffrey Physical Therapy: 603-532-6782

Patients should be reassured that this is a temporary transition

We are committed to keeping you updated throughout this process

Learn more about temporary locations and ongoing updates.


Important Update: Medicare Advantage Plans Changing in 2026

A person in a blue shirt stacks wooden hexagon blocks on a table, each printed with a blue healthcare icon including a stethoscope, medical bag, checklist, pill, dollar sign, and shield symbol, representing health coverage and insurance protection.

We understand that some members of our community have received notices about changes to their 2026 Medicare Advantage coverage. Several Medicare Advantage insurers have announced that they will no longer offer plans in New Hampshire beginning in 2026. These are business decisons made by the insurance carriers, not by any individual hospital or healthcare organization.

We know that these changes can create uncertainty and disruption, especially for those who now need to select a new Medicare Advantage plan, or revert to Original Medicare. As you review your options, we encourage you to take advantage of the following trusted resources during this year’s Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7):

For information about Medicare plans and the enrollment process, visit the official Medicare website.

New Hampshire residents can also reach out to:

  • New Hampshire Insurance Department’s Consumer Services Unit for personalized assistance:
  • Phone: 1-800-852-3416
  • Email: ConsumerServices@INS.NH.gov
  • The New Hampshire State Health Insurance Assistance Program (NH SHIP)
  • Phone number: 1-866-634-9412
  • Website: SHIPHELP.org

Monadnock Community Hospital remains committed to supporting our patients through these transitions.


Diabetes Awareness Month: Prevention and Support Resources

Diabetes

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a reminder that small steps today can protect your health for years to come. Learn how to reduce your risk, recognize symptoms early, and explore the diabetes support resources available at MCH. Whether for yourself or a loved one, knowledge is the first step toward prevention.

Read more about prevention and management.

MCH Nutrition Services


You’re Invited! Free Health & Wellness Seminar

Three Monadnock Community Hospital staff members stand together smiling in a hallway. All are wearing MCH jackets and ID badges, with the middle staff member’s badge identifying her as a respiratory therapist.

Join Monadnock Community Hospital’s Pulmonary Fitness team for a powerful seminar marking 15 years of MCH’s Tobacco Treatment Program. You’ll learn what makes this program so effective, including personalized medication plans, behavior-focused strategies, and dedicated support. Hear directly from former participants during a live patient panel and gain insight into what real, lasting change looks like. Registration is required.

Secure your spot today by visiting: Tobacco-2025.EventBrite.com 


Managing Joint Pain During the Busy Holiday Season

Older adult couple sitting on a couch near a Christmas tree; the woman rubs her knee in discomfort while the man offers support, symbolizing joint pain during the holidays.

The holiday season often means more activity which can leave you with more aches and pains. Joint pain can have many causes, from arthritis to overuse, but there are ways to protect your mobility. Explore practical tips to manage pain so you can enjoy family traditions and stay active all winter long.

Explore ways to ease joint pain.

Monadnock Orthopaedic Associates MOA


Video Now Available: Strong Steps Seminar-Strategies to Reduce Falls and Fractures

Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, but many can be prevented. The video recording of September seminar, Strong Steps: A Seminar on Fracture and Fall Prevention is now available for viewing on the MCH YouTube channel.

Presented by Orthopedic Physician Assistant, Daniel Salvadore of Monadnock Orthopaedic Associates, this engaging seminar offers practical strategies to stay steady, strong, and safe. Learn about strength and balance exercises, home safety, medication management, and nutrition tips for lifelong mobility.

Watch the Strong Steps seminar recording.

Monadnock Orthopaedic Associates MOA


Connect and Share: Monadnock Friends with MS Support Group

Close-up of a hand holding an orange awareness ribbon, representing support and awareness for multiple sclerosis.

Living with multiple sclerosis can feel isolating, but you’re not alone.

The Monadnock Friends with MS Support Group meets in person on the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon at the Bond Wellness Center on the Monadnock Community Hospital campus. Meetings offer education, encouragement, and friendly conversation in a positive, supportive setting. Contact Moni at Monadnock.Friends.With.MS@gmail.com or 508-277-0745.


MCH Shines Bright in Annual Quality Showcase

Collage of Monadnock Community Hospital staff standing beside colorful display boards at the Annual Quality Showcase. Each board highlights Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) projects focused on improving patient care and hospital processes. The background is teal with decorative yellow stars, celebrating teamwork and innovation.

October 16th was an exciting day on our hospital campus as departments across the organization came together to present their PDSA (Plan-Do-Study-Act) projects, showcasing their ongoing efforts to drive improvements and enhance quality. Both clinical and nonclinical teams highlighted the impactful work they have done, aligning their projects with our core mission, vision, and values. It was a day filled with inspiring presentations and a shared commitment to delivering the highest standard of care to our community.


Meet Our Providers


Welcoming Amy King, APRN, to Monadnock Family Care

Monadnock Family Care is growing! Amy King, APRN, brings nearly 20 years of experience in primary and geriatric care for patients age 13 and older. She’s passionate about building trusted relationships and supporting your long-term health.

“I’m excited to join a team that puts patients first, and I look forward to helping people achieve their best health,” says Amy.

Learn about Amy’s approach to care.

Monadnock Family Care


Caring for Every Stage of Life: Nurse Practitioner Carolyn Fernandes Joins Antrim Medical Group

Professional photo of Carolyn Fernandes, MSN, FNP-BC, smiling outside Antrim Medical Group, with welcome text and clinic branding.

 

Monadnock Community Hospital is pleased to welcome Carolyn Fernandes, MSN, FNP-BC, to Antrim Medical Group. Carolyn provides compassionate, family-focused care for patients of all ages and is dedicated to supporting lifelong wellness through trust and collaboration.

“I look forward to working closely with colleagues and patients to provide safe and compassionate care,” Carolyn shares.

Learn more or schedule an appointment.

Antrim Medical Group


Seasonal Message


Seasonal Message: Gratitude and Good Health This Holiday Season

Graphic with “Happy Thanksgiving” text surrounded by pumpkins and autumn leaves, with a message wishing health, blessings, and good times from the MCH family.

As the holiday season approaches, all of us at Monadnock Community Hospital are grateful for the trust and support of our community. Together, we make it possible to provide care close to home for neighbors of every age. We wish you and your loved ones a joyful season filled with health and peace.


Support Local Care


Support Local Care: Giving Tuesday at MCH

Historic Monadnock Community Hospital surgical team blended with a modern medical surgical department, symbolizing a century of compassionate care and community support. The image features the Giving Tuesday heart logo, representing generosity that keeps local care strong.

For more than 100 years, Monadnock Community Hospital has been here when our neighbors needed care most. This Giving Tuesday, your support helps us continue that promise by equipping our surgeons with an Electrosurgical Generator that brings precision, safety, and healing to every procedure. Together, we can keep lifesaving care close to home for generations to come.

Help Continue the Promise of Care by Making a Gift



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Your Hospital

Monadnock Community Hospital is a registered nonprofit.

Your Donations Make a Difference

Monadnock Community Hospital is a nonprofit hospital caring for our community since 1923. Your support helps neighbors receive compassionate care close to home and ensures families can count on us in times of need.

Planned gifts and endowments provide lasting impact—learn more about the Parmelee Society today.

Together, we ensure quality care will always be here when it’s needed most.

Give where your heart is.

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