Central Maine Healthcare

Where You are the Center

Rumford Hospital

Bridgton Hospital Emergency Department nurse recipient of DAISY Award

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Matt Holzinger, RN, an Emergency Department nurse at Bridgton Hospital, was recently presented with a DAISY Award for the exceptional care, compassion and reassurance he provided to a patient and family during a medical emergency.

The DAISY Award is an international program that recognizes nurses for their compassionate care and the difference they make in patients’ lives. Patients, their families, visitors, physicians and other staff can nominate a nurse for the award.

After a teenager was transported to Bridgton Hospital’s Emergency Department following a seizure-like event, Matt helped ensure he received prompt, attentive care. Family members described Matt as a calming and reassuring presence during an understandably frightening experience. His compassionate demeanor, clear communication and willingness to thoroughly answer questions helped ease their anxiety and build confidence in the care being provided.

The family also praised Matt’s warm personality, sense of humor and professionalism, noting that he balanced clinical expertise with genuine kindness.

Matt’s dedication to keeping the family informed and supported left a lasting impression during a time of uncertainty,” said Stephany Jacques, president of Bridgton Hospital. “Through his exceptional nursing care, empathy and commitment to patient- and family-centered care, Matt exemplifies the values of the DAISY Award.”

Rumford Hospital Emergency Department earns Gold for stroke care

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For the second straight year, Rumford Hospital’s Emergency Department has received the American Heart Association’s Get with the Guidelines Stroke Rural Recognition Gold Award. 

The ED was once again recognized for its efforts to optimize stroke care and reduce gaps in rural healthcare outcomes. Performance metrics include intravenous thrombolytic therapy, timely hospital inter-facility transfer, dysphagia screening, symptom timeline and deficit assessment documentation, emergency medical services communication, brain imaging and stroke expert consultation.

People who live in rural areas have a 40% higher likelihood of developing heart disease and face a 30% increased risk for stroke mortality, according to an American Heart Association’s presidential advisory on rural health. The award confirms that Rumford Hospital is committed to changing that.

“We are incredibly proud that our team at the Rumford Hospital ED is being recognized for the important work they do every day to improve the lives of people in the River Valley who are affected by stroke, giving them the best possible chance of recovery and survival,” said Stephany Jacques, president of Rumford Hospital. “I’m proud of our team’s commitment to stroke care excellence and of this achievement.”

Bridgton Hospital nursing supervisor recipient of DAISY Award

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Central Maine Healthcare would like to congratulate Brian Labrecque, RN, nursing supervisor at Bridgton Hospital, for being the recipient of the DAISY Award.

The DAISY Award is an international program that recognizes nurses for their compassionate care and the difference they make in patients’ lives. Patients, their families, visitors, physicians and other staff can nominate a nurse for the

award.

Brian was nominated by several of his colleagues who praised his exceptional teamwork, compassionate leadership and unwavering dedication to both patients and staff.

His nominators highlighted Brian’s willingness to step in wherever needed—from assisting with patient care and supporting nurses to educating patients, families and staff. They described him as a leader who treats everyone with respect, fosters a positive and inclusive work environment and consistently goes above and beyond to ensure both patients and colleagues feel supported.

“Whether helping a patient achieve a personal goal, mentoring staff through challenges or keeping operations running smoothly during short-staffed weekends, Brian leads by example with kindness, professionalism and empathy,” said Stephany Jacques, president of Bridgton Hospital. “His positive impact on patient care and team morale makes him a truly deserving recipient of the DAISY Award.”

Bridgton Hospital honors Randy Morrissette with Winnie Moore Award for clinical nursing excellence

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Bridgton Hospital is proud to announce Randy Morrissette, RN, has been selected as the recipient of the Winnie Moore Award which recognizes outstanding clinical nursing excellence.

The Winnie Moore Award honors a single Bridgton Hospital nurse whose dedication, professionalism and commitment to patient care exemplies the highest standards of nursing practice.

The award is named in honor of Winnie Moore, who devoted most of her nursing career to serving the Bridgton community. Moore worked as a nurse at Northern Cumberland Memorial Hospital, which later became Bridgton Hospital, and served as the hospital’s director of nursing for 29 years. She also contributed her leadership and expertise as a member of the hospital’s board of directors.

Morrissette was selected for his exceptional commitment to patients, colleagues and the broader Lakes Region community. He consistently demonstrates the qualities that define outstanding nursing leadership: compassion, dedication, teamwork and a willingness to go above and beyond to support those around him.

Known for his strong work ethic and commitment to supporting his team, Morrissette frequently volunteers to work additional shifts and routinely rounds on nursing staff throughout the night, offering guidance, encouragement and assistance whenever needed. His visible presence and hands-on approach foster a culture of trust, collaboration and mutual support, ensuring staff members know they can rely on his expertise regardless of the challenges they face during their shifts.

“Randy exemplifies the very best of nursing excellence and leadership,” said Stephany Jacques, president of Bridgton Hospital. “His unwavering commitment to providing exceptional patient care, supporting his colleagues and strengthening our culture of teamwork makes him truly deserving of the Winnie Moore Award. Randy leads by example every day through his compassion, professionalism and dedication to serving our community.”

Central Maine Healthcare names new chief nursing officer

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Kari Paradis, RN, has accepted the role of chief nursing officer (CNO) for Central Maine Healthcare. Kari has been serving as interim CNO since March.

Kari has been with Central Maine Healthcare for 21 years, both as a nurse and nurse leader. In 2024, she was named vice president of nursing and patient care at Bridgton Hospital and earlier this year became vice president of nursing at Rumford Hospital, as well.

“Kari brings to this role extensive clinical leadership experience, a deep commitment to patient-centered care and a strong passion for supporting our nursing teams and caregivers across the healthcare system,” said Allen Stefanek, president and CEO of Central Maine Healthcare. “Her experience and deep ties to the community will be a tremendous benefit to our patients and staff.”

In addition to her many leadership roles, Kari has been the recipient of both DAISY and SuperSTAR awards, recognition for her compassionate care of patients, as well as being a role model for all staff.

Central Maine Healthcare welcomes nurse practitioner

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LEWISTON, Maine (May 8, 2026) Central Maine Healthcare is pleased to announce the arrival of nurse practitioner Aimee McKeen, AGACNP-BC.

Aimee will be working with patients at Bridgton Hospital General Surgery, Central Maine Surgical Associates and Rumford Surgical Associates.

A Maine native, Aimee earned a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization as an adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner at the University of Maine, Fort Kent. She worked as a registered nurse at Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) before earning her masters. She also served as a travelling nurse.

Aimee says her primary interests are in acute care for the adult and geriatric population and working with the general surgery team.

“I believe in promoting preventative wellness, ensuring equitable access to care and delivering thoughtful, high-quality treatment that respects each patient’s dignity and individual needs,” she said. “I connect best with patients by taking the time to truly listen and understand their concerns without judgment. I believe in working together to develop a plan that aligns with their goals, ensuring they feel involved, informed and confident in their care.”

About Central Maine Healthcare:

Central Maine Healthcare, a member of Prime Healthcare Foundation, is an integrated healthcare delivery system serving 400,000 people living in central, western and Midcoast Maine, with more than 600 physicians and advanced practice professionals in more than 40 locations. CMH’s hospital facilities include Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, a 250-bed, not-for-profit Maine Trauma System hospital. CMMC is also the central Maine base for LifeFlight of Maine, the state’s only medical helicopter. The health system includes Bridgton Hospital and Rumford Hospital, two not-for-profit 25-bed critical access hospitals that care for rural communities. Bridgton Hospital serves the people of the Lakes Region of western Maine and Rumford Hospital offers inpatient and outpatient services to Maine’s River Valley community. To learn more, please visit www.cmhc.org.

CMH also includes two long-term care communities. Bolster Heights is an 84-bed assisted living facility located in the Lewiston-Auburn area, and Rumford Community Home is an 85-bed, active-living community in Rumford, Maine, offering residential care, secure dementia care, skilled rehabilitation, and long-term care nursing services.

CMH is home to Maine’s first nursing and medical imaging programs, Maine College of Health Professions, a private, not-for-profit institution of higher education, accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Trauma

If you’re experiencing a life-threatening emergency, dial 9-1-1 immediately or go to your nearest ER.

Emergencies happen when you least expect them, but rest assured, Central Maine Healthcare is here when you need us. From chest pain to trauma, broken bones to stroke, know that expert care is always around the corner.

Why Choose Us?

Patient Education & Resources

Injury Prevention Resources

Disclaimer: This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional’s instructions.

Injury Prevention and Safety

You’ve no doubt heard the saying “prevention is the best medicine” — and it’s absolutely true. To help you steer clear of injury and illness, Central Maine Healthcare has compiled our best health and safety tips.

The Flu Virus (Influenza)

The flu virus is now widespread in Maine and across the United States. To reduce your risk of infection, it is important to:

  • Get vaccinated — it’s not too late. Find a primary care provider near you.
  • Wash your hands
  • Stay home if you’re sick
  • Cover your cough with a sleeve or a tissue

Winter Safety

Winter always presents many safety hazards, both indoors and out. These how-to lists will help you have a healthy, accident-free winter:

Keep your home safe and warm

  • Test your smoke alarm monthly and change the batteries when you change your clocks.
  • Have your heating system inspected and tuned up yearly.
  • Keep portable space heaters three feet from bedding, furniture, and clothing.
  • Have your chimney inspected each year.

Survive a winter storm

Be prepared! Keep extra blankets, flashlights, batteries, matches, first aid kits, water, required medications and non-perishable food on hand.

Walk safely in icy, snowy weather

  • Do light warm-up activities before you walk, shovel snow or other strenuous activities
  • Take frequent breaks
  • Dress in layers and wear boots with non-skid soles
  • Dress in bright colors so drivers can see you

Drive safely in winter weather

  • Have your car serviced and drive slowly in bad weather
  • Check the level of antifreeze
  • Make sure your battery is in good shape
  • Check the tread on your tires or have snow tires put on your vehicle
  • Keep emergency gear in your vehicle (flashlight, jumper cables, sand for traction, ice scraper, and extra blankets)

Pulmonary

Meet our team!

The Central Maine Healthcare pulmonary care team is comprised of board-certified pulmonologists and critical care physicians, along with other highly trained team members.  We provide diagnosis and treatment as well as education.

Our Inhaler Educational Videos include a brief overview video and longer detailed video which goes over the use of your inhaler.

Conditions We Treat

At Central Maine Healthcare we provide diagnosis and treatment to our patients as well as education to both the patient and family.

Formal Asthma Education – We offer formal asthma education where you will meet one on one with our respiratory therapists to learn more about asthma management, preventative measures, avoidance of triggers, the medications used to treat asthma and the importance of compliance with these medications, among other topics.  Asthma education is vital to the successful treatment of this disease state.

Formal Smoking Cessation Counseling – We do offer an opportunity to meet with a certified smoking cessation counselor here in our office to discuss options for successfully achieving smoking cessation.

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency – Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease which often is under-recognized. We do offer screening for this in our office and if found to be deficient or a ‘carrier’ of an abnormal gene, free testing is offered to first degree family members. To learn more about Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency visit www.alpha1.org. We are recognized as an Alpha – 1 Clinical Resource Center by The Alpha 1 Foundation.

Bronchial Thermoplasty – Certain asthma patients may be candidates for a procedure called Bronchial Thermoplasty and we do provide this procedure to those who qualify. To learn more about this asthma treatment visit www.btforasthma.com

Diagnostic Procedures – We offer a wide array of diagnostic and therapeutic pulmonary procedures such as bronchoscopy (including with endobronchial ultrasound) and thoracenteses. Pulmonary function testing is available at CMMC, Rumford Hospital, and Bridgton Hospital.

Pulmonary Rehab – Pulmonary rehab is a monitored exercise program and education session using a multi-disciplinary team to increase activity level and improve the health of patients with chronic lung disease.

Educational Videos

Central Maine Pulmonary provides this educational video to guide you on how to use your inhaler. Each inhaler has two videos, the short video is a quick overview and the longer video goes over the use of the inhaler in more detail.  If you have questions about your inhaler that aren’t addressed in the video be sure to contact your healthcare provider.

CLICK HERE to view the complete inhaler training video playlist on our YouTube page. 

Inhaler Overview

HANDIHALER Inhaler Review —- HANDIHALER Inhaler Review
DISKUS Quick Review —- DISKUS Inhaler Tutorial
ELLIPTA Inhaler Quick Review —- ELLIPTA Inhaler Review
FLEXHALER Inhaler Quick Review —- FLEXHALER Inhaler Review
INHALER SPACER Quick Review —- INHALER SPACER Review
PRESSAIR Inhaler Quick Review —- PRESSAIR Inhaler Review
RESPIMAT Inhaler Quick Review —- RESPIMAT Inhaler Review

Women’s and children’s health

“The team delivered four healthy, happy babies, the most precious gifts that I have ever received. I could never thank them enough!

Women’s Health services | Breast Health | Maternity Care | Pediatrics

Women of all ages have unique health and medical needs, which is why Central Maine Healthcare has spent decades building services, treatment, education programs and facilities specifically for the care of women.

We have made every effort to make our women’s health services seamless and easily accessible because we know how hectic life can be. In addition to providing convenient, high-quality care, we also empower women to take control of their own health from the reproductive years to midlife and beyond.

From performing routine physicals to relieving symptoms of menopause or performing the latest diagnostic breast screenings, our women’s health specialists take a holistic yet personal approach, considering each woman’s lifestyle and needs in tailoring care. Our professionals are not only well qualified, but also equipped with skill and compassion to make the experience of getting healthy as good as the care itself.

Meet our providers

Baby Lena’s story

“Kim and Ben were looking forward to the birth of their second child. Everything had gone well during the birth of their son two years earlier, so they figured this delivery would be similar. When the unthinkable happened, they were thankful to have the care team at CMMC by their side” Read More…

Primary care

Primary care is your first line of defense against day-to-day illnesses and chronic conditions. Think of it like an ongoing maintenance program for your body and your health – the same way you think of spring cleaning for your home or oil changes for your car.

At Central Maine Healthcare, we make primary care easy and accessible to community members like you. We believe in providing compassionate, quality care from board-certified practitioners you can trust. Whether you have the flu, your child has an ear infection, or your parent needs help managing ongoing pain, we’ve got you covered.

Why Choose Us?

Commitment to community

Many of our providers live right in the Lewiston, Bridgton, Rumford, Topsham and surrounding areas we serve. As your neighbor, we have a personal interest in your well-being and that of our community.

Direct access to leading specialists

If your primary care provider determines you need an evaluation by specialist like a cardiologist or neurologist, they can refer you to one within our integrated health system. This streamlines your treatment, adds convenience and ease to your appointments and ensures you receive the same high-quality care at every step.

Care for the Whole You

Central Maine Healthcare has many primary care providers who are DOs, or Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine. DOs focus on prevention by gaining a deeper understanding of your lifestyle and environment, rather than just treating your symptoms. DOs are trained to promote the body’s natural tendency toward health and self-healing. We practice according to the latest science and use the latest technology. But we also consider options to complement pharmaceuticals and surgery.  We have additional training in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) and use this tool to help diagnose, treat and prevent illness and injury.  This is form of manual, or hands-on therapy that helps patients with acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as neck, back and hip pain to name a few.

Flexible appointments to meet your needs

Most of our providers are accepting new patients and offer extended evening and weekend hours, as well as telehealth services.

Meet our providers

Cheryl’s story

“Years ago, when Cheryl was sick with cold symptoms that wouldn’t go away, she wasn’t sure where to turn, so she called CMMC primary care. She was quickly seen by a local practice and received care from Dr. Michael Stadnicki.” Read More…