UP Health System - Portage

04/09/2026

At UP Health System, the Upper Peninsula isn’t just where we work—it’s our home. That’s why every day we’re focused on more than health care: we support local programs, invest in the well-being of families and help our communities thrive.

From providing access to care for those who need it most to supporting public health initiatives, education and local organizations, our work is guided by one goal: making a positive difference in the lives of the people we serve.

Our latest community benefit report shows how these efforts come together to strengthen the UP, one patient, one program and one community at a time. Explore the impact here:
https://www.uphealthsystem.com/community-benefit-report

04/08/2026

One local family had a special Easter basket this year. Our Easter baby girl has been charming her family and staff alike, greeting the world with open eyes and a big bow. We're thankful to welcome these holiday moments for our community.

04/08/2026

UP Health System – Portage Announces Transition of Portage Apothecary

UP Health System – Portage has reached an agreement to transition ownership of Portage Apothecary to Upper Great Lakes Family Health Center. This includes the two retail pharmacy locations and the nursing home pharmacy. Patients and the community will continue to have uninterrupted access to pharmacy services, with no planned changes to staffing or hours of operation.

“UP Health System – Portage is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care to the communities we serve,” said Ryan Heinonen, CEO. “This transition allows us to maintain access to pharmacy services locally while focusing on our core healthcare services.”

The transition is expected early this summer, and both organizations are working to ensure a smooth process for patients, employees and the community.

HOUGHTON and HANCOCK, Mich. (April 8, 2026) — UP Health System – Portage today announced an agreement to transition ownership of Portage Apothecary

04/06/2026

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month—a time to increase understanding and support for those affected by Parkinson's disease (PD).

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement and is associated with changes in dopamine levels in the brain. Nearly one million people in the U.S. are living with PD.

Common signs and symptoms may include:
• Tremors in the fingers, hands or chin
• Smaller or cramped handwriting (micrographia)
• Reduced sense of smell
• Sleep disturbances
• Slowed movement or difficulty walking
• Constipation
• A soft or low voice
• Reduced facial expression (sometimes called “masked face”)
• Dizziness or fainting
• Stooped posture

Symptoms can vary from person to person, and having one or more of these does not necessarily mean you have Parkinson’s disease. If you have concerns, it’s important to speak with a qualified healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance.

Looking for a provider? Visit: https://www.uphealthsystem.com/find-a-doctor

04/03/2026

Winter blues are often associated with early winter months like December and January, but they can linger into April. In regions like the Upper Peninsula, a long winter can lead to ongoing fatigue, even as spring approaches.

Here are a few ways to help manage late-winter blues:

• Write down your springtime plans. Setting goals can help shift your focus from enduring the season to preparing for what’s ahead.
• Try new experiences. Winter routines can become repetitive. Consider cooking a new recipe, exploring a different hiking trail or connecting with new people in your community.
• Limit screen time. While it may be tempting to spend more time on your phone during icy days indoors, excessive screen use can affect sleep and mood. Unplugged activities can offer a healthy change of pace.

If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of su***de, call or text the 988 Su***de and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or visit www.988lifeline.org. In life-threatening situations, call 911.

04/02/2026

This National Donate Life Month, we honor all those who have donated to help give the gift of life. We encourage you to do the same by registering to be a donor! Every donor leaves a legacy of hope.

Learn more about registering to be an organ donor or learn more about living donations at donatelife.net

04/01/2026

April is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about one of the most common cancers affecting men ages 20 to 44, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Testicular cancer can sometimes go undetected due to stigma or discomfort discussing symptoms. It’s important to talk with your health care provider if you notice:

• Pain, swelling or a lump in a testicle
• A feeling of heaviness or aching in the lower abdomen
• Breast tenderness or growth

Regular self-exams can help you become familiar with your body and identify any changes early. Combined with routine conversations with your health care provider, early detection can make a significant difference.

To learn more about cancer care at UP Health System, visit: https://www.uphealthsystem.com/cancer-care

03/31/2026

If you’ve been scheduled for a nuclear medicine stress test, knowing what to expect can make all the difference.

This quick video walks you through the process—from preparation to imaging—so you can feel informed, comfortable and confident every step of the way.

At UP Health System – Portage, our team is here to support you with advanced diagnostic imaging and compassionate care.

03/30/2026

Happy National Doctors’ Day! 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️ Today we celebrate the amazing physicians on our team who lead with compassion, expertise and dedication every single day. From guiding care teams to providing trusted care for our patients, your impact is felt in every corner of our community.

Thank you for making care personal, going above and beyond and helping keep our families and neighbors healthy. Today, we honor you—and every day we’re grateful for your commitment to excellence. 💙

03/27/2026

Some early signs of colon cancer can be easy to overlook or dismiss as minor digestive issues—but noticing them early could make all the difference. Symptoms like changes in bowel habits, unexplained fatigue, or abdominal discomfort may seem small, but they’re worth paying attention to. Our latest blog explains which symptoms to watch for and why regular screenings are crucial for catching colon cancer early—when treatment is most effective.

Read more here: https://www.uphealthsystem.com/health-resources/posts/2026/03/13/early-signs-of-colon-cancer-people-often-miss?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=colon_cancer_blog&fbclid=IwY2xjawQyQo5leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFwa3RJZHozUUtKNEtrbUxOc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHvi7lST_Zx66dNtgZuGxR0sVt9Lh1jS0M9NaGDGhqKFPdKeGXEP5H2ucCnlf_aem_FzoHDgodvp15NrQj-NoJOw

🔎 Learn more about colon cancer and screenings:
https://www.uphealthsystem.com/digestive.../colon-screenings

✔ Take our free Colon Health Assessment:
https://www.uphealthsystem.com/health-risk.../colon-health

👩‍⚕️ Find a provider:
https://www.uphealthsystem.com/find-a-doctor

Early detection saves lives—don’t wait to get screened.