UH Portage Medical Center Opens New Breast Health Center

RAVENNA, Ohio—University Hospitals (UH) Portage Medical Center will officially open its brand new Breast Health Center and host a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Sept. 27 at 4 p.m.

The UH Portage Breast Health Center will bring comprehensive breast care to patients in Portage and surrounding counties. Various equipment upgrades to the new space include:

• 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,” said Bill Benoit, MOT, MBA, FACHE, Chief Operating Officer, UH South Market. “While we have made great progress when it comes to treating breast cancer, it remains the second-leading cause of death among women. The addition of advanced technology, including comprehensive radiology, mammography, ultrasound and operating equipment will allow us to provide well-rounded care plans for our patients.”

The project was made possible by $1 million in federal funding, secured by elected leaders who represent UH Portage in Congress. Portage Community Bank is also a key donor to the project and made a major gift to renovate and name the mammography waiting room. Local support was also provided by Jim and Judy Fleming, who committed $187,000 toward the purchase of a stereotactic machine that performs extremely precise biopsies. This equipment was not available to patients at the hospital prior to this donation, which helped to kick-off the development of the new center. Jim is a breast cancer survivor and volunteered at UH for 15 years, and Judy is a retired UH nurse.

“We look forward to providing specialized care to our patients close to home, so that they can take care of their healthcare needs in one location, rather than having to leave the county, during what can be a very stressful time,” added Benoit. “We are very grateful for our local community’s support on this initiative, and for making this incredible project possible.”