UH Portage Medical Center Receives $1 Million to Establish New Breast Health Center

RAVENNA, Ohio—University Hospitals (UH) Portage Medical Center has received $1 million to establish a new Breast Health Center, in order to provide improved, comprehensive breast care to patients in Portage and surrounding counties. The project was made possible by Congressman Tim Ryan, whose 13 th District includes Portage County. The funding falls within the $1.5 trillion omnibus bill that President Biden signed in March.

“We look forward to establishing the UH Portage Breast Health Center to provide specialized care to our patients,” said Bill Benoit, MOT, MBA, FACHE, Chief Operating Officer, UH South Market. “Congressman Ryan made this investment possible by lobbying on our behalf to strengthen and expand the services that we currently provide. We are extremely grateful for his support on this initiative, and the support we’ve received from our local community.”

The funding will be utilized for various equipment upgrades, including:

• An additional 3-D mammography unit
• Two ultrasound units for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment
• Enhancements to technology and patient comfort for the current mammography unit
• Surgical equipment for breast procedures

When it comes to preventing and managing breast cancer, the UH Portage Breast Health Center will help patients every step of the way along their preventive care and treatment paths. “The addition of comprehensive radiology, mammography, ultrasound and operating equipment will allow us to provide well-rounded care plans for our patients,” added Benoit. “It will also help them feel comfortable coming to one location close to home, rather than having to leave the county, for all of their needs during what can be a very stressful time.”

“As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I am proud to help provide this important funding for UH Portage Medical Center as they work to advance the care and treatment of men and women across the state of Ohio,” said Congressman Ryan. “While we have made great progress in treating breast cancer, it remains the second-leading cause of death among women. It is more important than ever that we ensure every patient receives quality health care and access to the best available technology. I commend UH for their leadership in establishing the UH Portage Breast Health Center—the impact of which will be felt across Northeast Ohio.”

In addition to the generous support from Congressman Ryan’s office, the hospital has received local donations in support of the UH Portage Breast Health Center. Jim and Judy Fleming of Hudson committed $187,000 toward the purchase of a stereotactic machine that performs extremely precise biopsies. Jim is a breast cancer survivor and volunteered at UH for 15 years, and Judy is a retired UH nurse.