Keene Center is a skilled nursing facility in Keene, New Hampshire, dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of care services, including post-hospital, short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, and respite care. The center is committed to serving individuals who are recovering from illness or injury, offering a supportive and therapeutic environment tailored to meet each resident's medical and rehabilitative needs. Keene Center is a recognized AHCA Bronze Quality Award Winner and also participates as a We Honor Veterans community partner, demonstrating a commitment to both quality care and honoring veterans within the community.
The center boasts a multidisciplinary team intent on delivering quality care and services. Amanda Pickering, who brings extensive experience in various long-term care roles, leads the center. She holds a BS in Business with a concentration in Healthcare Administration from Southern New Hampshire University and is a licensed nursing home administrator in the state. Her background spans from dietary services to recreation, social work, marketing, admissions, and dietary direction, ensuring a holistic approach to resident wellbeing. Her passion for the field is matched by her pursuit of a Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration.
Medical care at Keene Center is overseen by Leslie Pitts, MD, CM, MS, FAAFP, who acts as Medical Director. With a medical degree from McGill University and extensive training in Family Medicine and Healthcare Delivery Science, Dr. Pitts partners with both Genesis providers and Dartmouth Hitchcock clinicians to ensure residents benefit from coordinated, expert care. He is involved in regular clinical rounds and plays an active role in the center’s Quality Assurance Process Improvement and interdisciplinary committee meetings.
The center’s therapy and rehabilitation team is strengthened by talents such as Jessica Cwik, who joined in 2024 and holds a doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, with a certification as a Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist. Additionally, Laura Elliott, who joined in 2023, offers a wealth of geriatric healthcare experience and holds a BS in Health Science from Southern New Hampshire University. Laura is dedicated to fostering connections with residents and their families, supporting the overall community ambiance of the facility.
Nursing leadership is provided by Brandee Cutter, the Director of Nursing. With an RN and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Weber State University, as well as experience as a US Navy veteran, Brandee brings substantial expertise in areas such as ICU, psychiatric nursing, home healthcare, and hospice. Her focus on building team cohesion and supporting staff underscores the importance the center places on both resident and employee wellbeing. Complementing the human team is Ted Elliott, a three-year-old Chocolate Labrador who has become a beloved member of the Keene Center family, offering warm greetings to visitors and staff, and providing a source of joy and companionship to the residents.
Keene Center’s philosophy is grounded in providing individualized, compassionate care while fostering a vibrant and engaging environment for residents. Activities and quality life programming are integral parts of daily life, designed to enrich and enhance both physical and mental wellbeing. With a dedicated staff and leadership focused on expertise, empathy, and teamwork, Keene Center prioritizes the needs and dignity of every individual in its care.