Massachusetts is known across the globe for the high quality of its health care facilities. Some of the finest and best-known teaching hospitals and medical schools in the world are just minutes away from the Merrimack Valley in Boston, Cambridge and Worcester. The Merrimack Valley itself is home to six of the best community hospitals in Massachusetts, as well as outstanding home health care and visiting nurse agencies. In addition, the Merrimack Valley's two community colleges and the University of Massachusetts/Lowell offer a wide array of training programs for people interested in health care careers, ranging from 10-month certificate programs to advanced academic degrees.