Across Berkshire County, many people face health challenges that make daily life harder, from managing chronic illnesses to finding mental health care or support for recovery. New and expecting parents, especially in rural and low-income communities, also face higher health risks during and after pregnancy. 

These needs were found through the 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment, which centers community voices and local data. In response, Berkshire Health Systems is taking action through its Community Health Implementation Plan, guiding how we partner, invest, and care because building a healthier community is something we all share. 

Our Focus Right Now

Guided by the 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment, Berkshire Health Systems is focusing its Community Health Implementation Plan on the following areas. 

Supporting Healthy Pregnancies and Births 
Expanding postpartum care, mental health screening, and care navigation so birthing people receive prompt, respectful, and coordinated support especially those facing the greatest barriers.  

Improving Mental Health Access 
Strengthening care coordination, expanding community based services, and reducing stigma so people of all ages can seek help without fear of judgment or long waits.  

Supporting Substance Use Recovery 
Partnering with community organizations to improve access to recovery services, workforce pathways, and wraparound supports that help people build stability and long term health.  

Helping People Manage Chronic Disease 
Expanding care coordination and disease management resources to support people living with conditions like heart disease, diabetes, asthma, and cancer especially when everyday barriers make care harder to access.  

Care Navigation & Social Needs Support 
Expanding care navigation beyond the clinic through its Embedded Community Health Worker Initiative. Our Community Health Workers connect patients to resources and support for nonmedical challenges like food, transportation, housing, and prescription costs, while also helping with primary care connections and preventive visit scheduling.