Joseph Perras, MD, president and CEO of Cheshire Medical Center (Cheshire), a member of Dartmouth Health, has been named to Becker’s Hospital Review’s list of 2026 “Rural Hospital and Health System Presidents and CEOs to Know.”
The annual list recognized 146 rural hospital and health system leaders nationwide for their roles in expanding services, recruiting talented caregivers and investing in community health through thoughtful facility improvements and strategic growth. The list was developed through editorial research and nominations, and organizations cannot pay for inclusion.
Perras leads Cheshire, the largest provider of healthcare in Cheshire County and a regional referral center serving parts of New Hampshire, Vermont and Massachusetts. Under his leadership, Cheshire has strengthened its commitment to patients, employees, and the community through growth of clinical service lines and a focus on long-term financial sustainability.
“As the regional referral center for southwest New Hampshire, we have focused on strengthening primary care, medical specialty and surgical services for our region,” said Perras. “We are committed to providing the highest quality care in the safest environment for staff and patients, and executing on our mission to provide compassionate and exceptional care to all we serve.”
Perras previously served as a chairperson of the American Hospital Association’s Small or Rural Hospital Council and was appointed to the AHA’s Institute for Diversity and Health Equity. Perras is a graduate of the Academy of GE Fellows Program and is focused on building successful value-based care programs in rural environments.
Two additional Dartmouth Health leaders were also recognized on Becker’s Hospital Review’s 2026 list: Estevan Garcia, MD, DrPH, president and CEO of Southwestern Vermont Health Care and Michael Lynch, MD, MBA, president and CEO of Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital.
About Cheshire Medical Center
Cheshire Medical Center (Cheshire) advances the health and wellness of individuals across New Hampshire’s Monadnock Region through outstanding care and exceptional service. Cheshire teams deliver an impressive range of clinical services that support the community's needs. As a member of Dartmouth Health, Cheshire is able to provide services far exceeding those of a typical rural hospital, including extensive programs in primary care, cancer care, cardiology, orthopaedics, and public health. Cheshire patients are also able to access hundreds of highly trained specialists and a depth of clinical and technical resources through its collaboration with Dartmouth Health. Cheshire’s clinical practice is distinguished by an exceptional staff, a strong commitment to safety and quality, and a culture that values the contribution of every staff member and volunteer. Cheshire is the area's largest healthcare provider and leading employer. Along with the services delivered on their Keene campus and satellite locations, the Medical Center partners with local organizations to provide vital services and programs throughout the region. To learn more, call 603-354-5400 or visit cheshiremed.org.