Working Together for Better Health
Berkshire Health is committed to helping the communities we serve achieve the best possible health and wellness. Our unique Neighborhood for Health program at Berkshire Health North addresses the variety of health and lifestyle challenges patients may face in maintaining and improving their health following discharge from Berkshire Medical Center.
Our Neighborhood for Health team includes nurse practitioners, a psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse practitioners, social workers, diabetes educators, a tobacco treatment specialist, care navigators, and community health workers.
Through coordinated care and extensive services, our Neighborhood for Health team helps local community members to achieve better outcomes and reduce the need for further hospital admissions. Our Care Navigators meet with Northern Berkshire County residents upon admission to BMC, working with patients to prepare a comprehensive discharge plan to address physical, emotional and social needs and provide strategies for better health.
Comprehensive Post Hospital Support
Following discharge, the Neighborhood for Health team coordinates comprehensive outpatient medical care, along with social and community services required for improving health. Neighborhood for Health services address basic needs beyond follow-up care, and may include transportation to appointments, access to nutritious food, finding a safe environment, and mental health services. Participation in the program is optional, and services may be provided in-home if needed.
Services include:
- Diabetes education
- Congestive heart failure clinic
- Nutrition counseling
- Expanded behavioral health services
- Substance abuse disorders
- Outpatient detox center
- Smoking cessation