Androscoggin Valley Hospital (AVH), a critical access hospital serving Berlin and the greater North Country region, has announced a partnership with North Country Ophthalmology, LLC (NCO) to provide access to advanced eye care treatment, surgery and consultation for residents of northern New Hampshire.
Beginning January 9, 2026, board-certified ophthalmologists from NCO will deliver comprehensive in-office care at AVH on a biweekly basis, with services including evaluation and treatment for diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and other chronic and urgent eye diseases. In addition, laser procedures for diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and retinal tears will be available on-site, with expansion to cataract surgery planned for May 2026.
This initiative is the first of its kind in the North Country, closing a longstanding gap in specialty surgical care. NCO will be run by board-certified ophthalmologists, who are highly trained physicians and surgeons who perform delicate procedures to restore and protect vision. Thanks to this program, patients who once had to travel hours for advanced eye surgery and treatment can now receive state-of-the-art care close to home.
“On behalf of the North Country and several of my legislative colleagues in Coos County,” said Delegation Chair State Representative Arnie Davis. “I want to thank the New Hampshire Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (NHSEPS), Androscoggin Valley Hospital (AVH), and all those who made this program possible. For our residents, access to specialty surgical eye care close to home is truly life changing.”
Dr. Shakthi Maeder, MD, representing NHSEPS, stated, “Our society is deeply committed to ensuring that rural patients in New Hampshire have access to the same quality of care as those who are south of the Notch. This program is a major step forward in achieving that vision.”
The collaboration between AVH and NCO reflects the independent spirit of Granite Staters: neighbors solving problems without waiting for government mandates. Time and again, our state has shown that, when a challenge arises, Granite Staters roll up their sleeves and find practical, community-driven solutions. This program is no exception. Many of the NCO ophthalmologists have made a personal commitment to its success, with some planning to travel significant distances to meet North Country patients where they are. Their dedication ensures that residents do not have to sacrifice the quality of care simply because of geography. It’s a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when New Hampshire’s tradition of self-reliance and collaboration is put into action.
State Senator David Rochefort from Littleton highlighted the regional importance: “Addressing rural health access is not just about patient care; it’s about strengthening the economic and social fabric of our communities. This initiative shows what is possible when professionals and communities work together with purpose to think outside the box to meet the needs of their community.”
“This initiative is truly groundbreaking for the North Country and a model for rural health care across New England,” said Andy Lowe, executive director of the New England Rural Health Association. “We are proud to support such an innovative approach to solving access challenges, one that brings specialty surgical care directly to rural communities and proves what’s possible when partners come together with vision and commitment.”
“The New Hampshire Medical Society commends the ophthalmologists and the leadership of the New Hampshire Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons for their dedication to advancing patient care and improving access to specialty services in rural communities. This initiative exemplifies how collaborative and innovative approaches can successfully address health care challenges and ensure that all Granite Staters receive the high-quality care they deserve,” added Cathy Stratton, CEO of the NH Medical Society.
Michael D. Peterson, FACHE, president & CEO of Androscoggin Valley Hospital, emphasized the significance for the region: “As a rural hospital, we know firsthand the barriers patients face in accessing specialty care. This program represents a milestone not just for AVH, but for the entire North Country. It’s about equity, access, and ensuring our patients get the care they deserve, right here at home. AVH is a proud member of North Country Healthcare.”
The project has already received approval from both the AVH leadership team and the North Country Healthcare Board. Architectural plans are complete, equipment orders are finalized, and credentialing of eight ophthalmologists is underway.
The launch of this ophthalmology program marks a turning point for the North Country. By bringing world-class eye surgeons to Berlin, it addresses urgent rural health care gaps while reaffirming the community’s resilience and capacity to solve problems locally.
Beginning in January, NCO ophthalmologists will deliver in-office eye care at AVH, bridging an access gap in NH's North Country
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