Community Memorial (CMH) is proud to welcome Heather Bernard, DNP, RN, CIC, FAPIC, as the new Vice President of Nursing and Clinical Services. Bernard joins the administrative team following the retirement of Diane Chase, RN.

As the Vice President of Nursing and Clinical Services, Bernard provides mentorship and guidance to nursing leaders and assigned patient care departments. She is responsible for enhancing clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction and improving quality and patient safety.

Bernard brings a strong background in managing and preventing infectious diseases, previously serving as a Regional Infection Control Specialist in New York State with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Foundation. Leading the regional Epidemiology Program response to COVID-19 across the state, she was recognized for her mitigation work with a significant COVID outbreak in a hospital.

Prior to her time with the CDC, Bernard worked in the Mohawk Valley Health Systems Network as the Director of Infection Prevention. Bernard worked with evidence-based programs to address infection prevention and collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to improve quality measures  including falls, pressure ulcers, bedside rounding, and healthcare-associated infections.

A long-time Hamilton resident and no stranger to Community Memorial, Bernard returns to where she started her career in nursing 25 years ago. “I am proud to be back at CMH, where my journey began and continue its outstanding reputation for patient care,” Bernard commented. “My career journey and experiences have shaped my transformational leadership style. I look forward to supporting the provision of high-quality, evidence-based healthcare to our community.”

“Heather’s experience in leading a team across a large healthcare system and managing response for COVID outbreaks in Article 28 organizations across the state reflect her ability to lead effectively even during the most trying times in healthcare,” stated Jeff Coakley, President & CEO. “We are so fortunate to have Heather back at Community Memorial. I look forward to watching her lead her team in continued success.”