UP Health System - Portage

01/15/2026

With temperatures dropping and wind speeds rising, it’s important to remember the health risks of cold exposure. If the weather conditions in Hancock are 19 degrees, with winds of 10 to 18 mph, frostbite can develop in as little as 30 minutes.

To help protect yourself, keep these frostbite dos and don’ts in mind when spending time outdoors:

Don’t: Wear one thick, heavy coat.
Do: Dress in multiple layers. This allows you to regulate your body temperature as you move around.

Don’t: Leave your gloves and hat at home.
Do: Cover your hands and head. Exposed skin is more vulnerable to frostbite. Even short periods outdoors in extreme cold can dry and damage skin.

Don’t: Improvise along the way.
Do: Plan ahead and limit your time outdoors. Preparation is the best defense to reduce your overall risk.

01/13/2026

January is Mental Wellness Month, a gentle reminder to check in with yourself. Being proactive about your wellbeing can prevent smaller struggles from becoming bigger challenges. If you are experiencing mental health-related or emotional distress, we are here for you with quality, compassionate care.

01/12/2026

When it comes to on-the-job safety, employees who work at a desk often face fewer immediate risks than those who work on their feet. However, sitting for long periods can still affect overall comfort and well-being, including posture, wrists, eyesight and flexibility.

Here are some tips to help support healthy habits if you work at a desk:

• Adjust your monitor. Position your screen at eye level and adjust brightness to reduce strain on your neck, shoulders and eyes. A monitor that is too low or too bright can contribute to discomfort and headaches.
• Check your posture. Slouched shoulders and a rounded back can lead to fatigue and muscle tightness. Setting reminders to sit upright and engage your core may help you stay more comfortable throughout the day.
• Avoid sitting too long. If available, alternating between sitting and standing can provide gentle movement for muscles used during stationary work.
• Review keyboard placement. A keyboard that is too close or lacks wrist support can increase strain on the hands and wrists. Aim for a neutral wrist position while typing.
• Take movement breaks. Standing up to stretch or walk periodically can promote circulation and help prevent stiffness.

By being mindful of your body throughout the workday, you can help reduce the risk of discomfort associated with prolonged sitting. Small adjustments can support a healthier, more comfortable work environment.

01/09/2026

This week’s healthcare hero is Renée Laitila, patient navigator at UPHS – Portage.

Renée is often the first friendly face patients and visitors see when they walk through our doors. She helps guide patients through changing care pathways, answers a wide range of questions and ensures people get where they need to go without unnecessary delays.

Thank you, Renée, for all you do for our patients and our community.

Stay current with the latest health and hospital news from our hospital.

01/08/2026

Staying hydrated is often associated with hot, sunny days. However, drinking water is equally important in winter.

The CDC recommends regular water intake for keeping a normal temperature, lubricating and cushioning joints, and protecting your spinal cord. In winter, staying hydrated can help protect your skin, as well as reduce the likelihood of chapped lips.

It's common to not feel as thirsty when it's cold outside, compared to when sweat drips in the summer heat. However, dehydration symptoms can sneak up on you, regardless of season. Dehydration can cause fatigue, brain fog, and bring upon more serious symptoms if not addressed.

Here's some tips for keeping hydrated in the wintertime:

- Take regular breaks during outdoor activity to hydrate, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- Limit intake of alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
- Carry a reusable water bottle that you can fill up at the gym, rink, or ski hill.
- Use hydrating lotion on your skin after showering, to lock in moisture before going outside.
- Make sure to cover exposed skin from cold winds.

01/07/2026

📣 Flu season is here — stay informed and stay healthy. 🤧🛡️

Flu activity is increasing across our region, making it important to understand how the virus spreads and how to protect yourself and your loved ones. From why the flu changes each year to how vaccination helps and where to get vaccinated locally, this article covers what you need to know. 💉👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Learn how to reduce your risk and take steps to stay well this season.

👉 Need a provider? Visit https://www.UPHealthSystem.com/Find-A-Doctor

Stay current with the latest health and hospital news from our hospital.

01/06/2026

A new year means new opportunities to focus on your health, and we’re here to help every step of the way. From routine screenings to specialty care, we are dedicated to helping you live well in the moments that matter most. Because we don’t just specialize in healthcare—we specialize in you.

Start your year healthy and strong. Have questions or need a provider? Find one today: uphealthsystem.com

01/05/2026

Say hello to the first baby of 2026 at UP Health System – Portage.

Arlo, a baby boy, arrived shortly after New Year’s. Congratulations to Arlo’s family, who now have a new reason to celebrate this time of year.

01/01/2026

🎉✨ Welcome to 2026! ✨🎉

From all of us at UP Health System, we’re ringing in the New Year with gratitude for our amazing community. Thank you for trusting us with your health and for letting us be part of your journey.

Let’s make this year one of wellness, joy and new possibilities! 🥂💛

12/31/2025

New Year's Eve is a time for reflection on the past and planning for the future. One of the most common resolutions made this time of year is to exercise more.

The hardest thing about resolutions is sticking to them. But sticking to them is a lot easier when they're defined in an actionable way.

In comes the SMART acronym, a method for setting and achieving goals. When your goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound, you can turn that idea into reality.

Read more on what goes into the SMART acronym, and how you can use it to have a successful 2026.

Stay current with the latest health and hospital news from our hospital.

12/30/2025

Well, with the snowstorm we just received, it’s safe to say snowmobile season has officially arrived! ❄️

Winter in the Upper Peninsula is a beautiful time to enjoy our favorite outdoor activities, and snowmobiling is at the top of the list. While it’s a thrilling way to explore the UP, it’s important to remember that snowmobiling does come with risks — including traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

The good news? Many injuries are preventable. Start by wearing properly fitting protective gear, riding at safe speeds, staying alert for other riders and groomers, and knowing the terrain around you.

Don’t let an injury cut your season short — ride smart and ride safe this winter. If you or someone you know experiences an emergency, UP Health System is here to help. Learn more about our emergency services at www.UPHealthSystem.com/Get-Care-Now.

For more information on TBIs and what to do when they occur, visit https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/