New Chief Medical Officer at CHP Aims to Transform Patient Care

Community Health Programs (CHP) has appointed John-Paul Bettencourt as its new Chief Medical Officer, a move aimed at enhancing patient care in the Great Barrington area. Bettencourt’s passion for medicine began in his youth at a Boy Scout camp in Rhode Island, where he earned his First Aid Merit Badge. This experience ignited his desire to pursue a career in healthcare, driven by the belief that he could make a difference in people’s lives.

Bettencourt’s Career Journey

Before joining CHP, Bettencourt served as the Chief Medical Officer at the McGregor Clinic in Fort Myers, Florida, from October 2022 until October 2025. His extensive background includes roles at Fenway Community Health in Boston, where he worked as a physician and later as the lead physician. During his tenure, he also taught at Harvard Medical School, further solidifying his expertise in the field.

Bettencourt’s academic credentials are impressive. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in biology from the University of Vermont, a Master of Public Health from A.T. Still University, a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the University of New England, and an MBA in healthcare management from Western Governors University.

Reflecting on his formative experiences, Bettencourt shared a pivotal moment when a professor encouraged him to participate in HIV research in Africa. This opportunity broadened his perspective on healthcare and deepened his commitment to the field.

Focus on Patient-Centered Care

CHP, which serves approximately 30,000 patients annually, provides a range of health services, including mobile clinics and sliding-fee programs. Bettencourt expressed his enthusiasm for joining an organization that prioritizes patient care over financial metrics. “I got into medicine not because of dollars, but because I really want to help people,” he stated. This ethos resonates throughout CHP, where the focus is on treating patients as individuals rather than mere numbers.

Bettencourt emphasized the ongoing need for medical services in the region, particularly in light of the growing prevalence of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. He noted that these health issues create a sustained demand for CHP’s services, which aim to address both medical needs and financial accessibility.

One of the significant challenges facing Berkshire County is the shortage of primary care providers. Bettencourt highlighted the importance of preventative medicine, which remains underappreciated among new graduates. He believes that attracting healthcare professionals to less urban areas like the Berkshires requires showcasing the community’s strengths, such as its natural beauty and collaborative spirit.

As Bettencourt settles into his role at CHP, he looks forward to fostering a culture of care that prioritizes patient needs. “When it comes to treatment, CHP patients receive the same level of care they would find anywhere else in the country,” he affirmed.

For more information about Community Health Programs and the services they provide, visit their website.