UPMC Western Maryland

10/30/2025

Blanche Mavromatis, MD, medical oncologist at UPMC Western Maryland, recently joined Magic 100.5 Radio to discuss breast cancer awareness and the importance of yearly mammograms.

Dr. Mavromatis explained that annual mammograms are one of the most effective tools for early detection, helping reduce the risk of advanced disease and improving both quality of life and longevity. “Routine screenings help identify health problems early,” she said. “That’s how we save lives.”

Her advice to women: know your risk by understanding your family history and reproductive factors. For those at average risk, screening should begin at age 40 and continue yearly. Higher-risk women may need to start earlier, so it’s important to talk with your doctor. Early detection matters because breast cancer often has no symptoms in its earliest stages, and mammograms can find changes before they’re noticeable.

Schedule your mammogram and encourage loved ones to do the same. Learn more or make an appointment at https://go.upmc.com/2263zcAmB

10/25/2025

🎉 Congratulations to Vanessa Steele, our October Values in Action Award winner! 🎉

Vanessa, a professional staff nurse with over 35 years of service at UPMC Western Maryland, exemplifies UPMC Western Maryland values through her unwavering dedication to patients, families, and coworkers. Her compassion, integrity, and attention to detail make her an invaluable part of our team.

Vanessa goes above and beyond to ensure patients have everything they need — making sure her patients have transportation to their appointments, as well as wigs, and support through their journey through cancer. She takes the time to explain things in ways that are clear and comforting, always treating others with compassion.

Thank you, Vanessa, for making UPMC Western Maryland a place where care, kindness, and community thrive.

10/24/2025

10/15/2025

Join us in congratulating Katielee Olinzock, a patient care technician in the ICU, for being named a recent PETALS Award winner.

Katielee brings a calm, caring presence to one of the most critical areas of care. She’s always attentive to vital signs, patient comfort, and the needs of her team—making sure no detail goes unnoticed. Her willingness to lend a helping hand to nurses and her welcoming smile brighten the unit and reassure patients and families alike.

Thank you, Katielee, for delivering Life Changing Medicine to our community.

09/18/2025

Dr. Hani Alkhatib, MD, director, Structural Heart Program, is one of the clinical leaders at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute (HVI) at UPMC Western Maryland. Under his leadership, the HVI team has been recognized for their unwavering commitment to delivering advanced cardiac care locally, eliminating the need for patients in western Maryland to travel long distances for critical treatment.

“It’s a testament to the commitment and the passion that every member of our team has to deliver advanced cardiac care,” says Dr. Alkhatib as he reflected on the recognition.

When asked how the HVI team navigates complex challenges while maintaining a positive patient experience, Dr. Alkhatib emphasized the power of collaboration.
“The key word is team. Managing cardiac diseases in this day and age is complex. Each HVI staff member has a specific role.”

Dr. Alkhatib credits the success of the program to the dedication and skill of the entire team.

“We have a team of dedicated individuals who are highly skilled and very committed to this community. Our mission is to deliver the highest level of cardiac care and emphasize that we can do this right here in western Maryland — close to our patients’ homes. This is very rewarding.”

09/12/2025

Andrea Chamczuk, MD, a neurosurgeon at UPMC Western Maryland, recently joined WCBC Radio to discuss the growing impact of neurosurgery services in Cumberland. She expressed her enthusiasm for the care being provided and the difference it’s making in the community.

“My colleague Dr. Strauss and I are proud to offer comprehensive neurosurgical care right here in Cumberland,” said Dr. Chamczuk. “We’re here to help—just give us a call at 240-964-8944 to schedule an appointment.”

Dr. Chamczuk emphasized the importance of having advanced neurosurgical expertise available locally, noting that patients no longer need to travel long distances for high-quality care. From treating complex spine conditions to managing brain injuries and tumors, the neurosurgery team is equipped with the latest technology and a patient-centered approach.

“Our goal is to make sure patients feel supported every step of the way—from diagnosis to recovery,” she added. “We’re committed to improving outcomes and enhancing quality of life for our patients and their families.”

09/08/2025

🎉 Congratulations to Diana Dayton, our August Values in Action Award winner! 🎉

Diana, an Improvement Specialist with over 30 years of service at UPMC Western Maryland, exemplifies what it means to take true ownership in patient care. Her dedication, compassion, and attention to detail consistently elevate the patient experience.

Diana is an invaluable member of our team at UPMC Western Maryland, consistently demonstrating exceptional dedication and compassion in her service to both patients and staff. Her positive attitude, reliability, and deep understanding of our values make her a cherished colleague and an essential part of our team.

Thank you, Diana, for your unwavering commitment to excellence and for making UPMC Western Maryland a place where patients and families feel truly cared for.

09/06/2025

Please join us in welcoming Kristen Ewing, PA-C, to the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute at UPMC Western Maryland.

Kristen specializes in cardiology and is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. She received both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Saint Francis University.

To schedule an appointment with Kristen, call 240-964-8740, or for more information about our cardiology services, visit https://go.upmc.com/1922ExpQF

09/04/2025

UPMC Lab Services in Grantsville will be temporarily closed beginning Friday, Sept. 5. Patients are encouraged to visit another lab location during this time, with the closest being at the UPMC Outpatient Center in Frostburg.

All other lab locations will remain open with no changes to the days or hours of service.

For a list of alternate lab service locations, please visit:

UPMC Western Maryland offers inpatient and outpatient lab work. State-of-the-art labs perform tests and report results to your physician.

08/30/2025

We were proud to welcome Congresswoman April McClain Delaney to UPMC Western Maryland, along with representatives from Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks’ offices.

Together, we toured the Schwab Cancer Center and the Center for Hope and Healing—and had meaningful conversations about the unique challenges of rural health care, workforce development and regional partnerships, and the need for sustainable funding to expand access and services.

Visits like these highlight the power of collaboration and advocacy in building healthier communities across our region.

08/28/2025

Join us in congratulating Kourtney Dicken, a medical assistant on our wound care team, for being named a recent PETALS Award winner.

Kourtney exemplifies the kind of compassionate care every patient hopes for. Her warmth, encouragement, and genuine empathy make every visit to Wound Care feel like a step toward healing—not just physically, but emotionally too. She celebrates your wins, listens with heart, and brings an energy that lifts everyone around her.

Thank you, Kourtney, for delivering Life Changing Medicine to our community.