Independence Health System

06/09/2026

Hip pain can make everyday life harder than it should be.
For some patients, an anterior hip replacement may support earlier movement by working between muscles instead of cutting through them.

📞 In the Butler or Clarion area? Call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Clark and talk through your options: 833-604-7214

Learn more: https://www.independence.health/newsroom/2026/may/anterior-hip-replacement-what-patients-need-to-k/

Living with chronic hip pain isn’t something you have to accept as “normal.” Today’s hip replacement options, including the anterior approach, offer many patients a path back to movement and comfort.

06/08/2026

Just days after heart surgery… he was back mowing his lawn.

At 79, Bob Weaver wasn’t expecting such a fast turnaround.
After undergoing a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) at Westmoreland Hospital, his life changed almost instantly—no more shortness of breath, no more limitations.

Within days of a transcatheter aortic valve replacement procedure at Independence Health Westmoreland Hospital, Bob Weaver was out mowing his lawn. The improvement in his quality of life has been amazing, Weaver said. The Hempfield man was experiencing shortness of breath prior to the procedure on M...

06/05/2026

Independence Health System is proud to mark an exciting milestone at Westmoreland Hospital with the grand opening of its newly renovated main entrance and public spaces.
This transformation reflects more than a refreshed look—it represents a continued commitment to enhancing the patient and visitor experience through modern, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed environments. The upgraded entrance and café create a more comfortable and accessible space while supporting the hospital’s day-to-day operations.
As part of a broader vision for growth and investment in healthcare across the region, this project signals meaningful progress in strengthening access to high-quality care for the Westmoreland community.
Thank you to the teams and partners who helped bring this important project to life.

06/05/2026

Christina Freehling, PA‑C, Thoracic and Cardiothoracic Surgery, recently joined WISR 680 AM & 107.5 FM to talk about Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)—what it is, why early detection matters, and the comprehensive vascular services available at Independence Health System.

If you or a loved one may be at risk, this conversation offers valuable insight straight from one of our experts.

👉 Listen to the full interview and learn how IHS is here to support your vascular health:
https://youtu.be/pGnSqqLmCLc

06/04/2026

Wait...PCOS is now PMOS? Here’s what that really means.

You may be hearing a new term: PMOS (Polycystic Metabolic O***y Syndrome). This is an updated name that better reflects what’s really happening in the body. Because this isn’t just about ovaries. It’s about hormones, metabolism, and whole-body health.

This name change helps bring more awareness to:
✔️ Insulin resistance
✔️ Hormonal imbalance
✔️ Long-term health risks

If you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS—or think you might have it—this is your reminder: You deserve answers, support, and a care team that sees the full picture.



06/03/2026

Independence Health System is proud to partner with KDKA Radio and the Big K Morning Show with Larry Richert to bring you Inside Independence Health System—a weekly segment spotlighting the people, expertise, and care our community relies on.

Recently, Family Medicine Physician, Dr. Paul Lewis joined Larry Richert to talk about the importance of preventive care and how staying proactive can support long‑term health.

🎧 Listen to the full interview and learn practical tips to take charge of your health: https://youtu.be/OcD6netvbko

Every Tuesday at 7:20 a.m. on KDKA 1020 AM, our physicians from across the system join the conversation to share insights on quality care and important health topics impacting western Pennsylvania.

06/02/2026

Independence Health System has signed an agreement to join WVU Medicine, bringing an unprecedented $800 million investment into our hospitals right here in southwestern Pennsylvania.

What does this mean for our community?
✅ Expanded services close to home
✅ Advanced technology and upgraded facilities
✅ More access to specialized care

This partnership strengthens our commitment to keeping high-quality care local—now and for generations to come.

Agreement paves way to final closing in late September or early October 2026 and supports planned $800 million investment to strengthen hospitals and expand care in Western Pa.

06/01/2026

We’re excited to welcome Dr. Jason Clark back to our communities!

A fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with advanced robotic joint replacement expertise, Dr. Clark is now caring for patients in Butler and Clarion, ensuring expert orthopedic care is close to home.

📞 Call 833‑604‑7214 to schedule.
🔗 Learn more about Dr. Clark: https://bit.ly/4cOWDYn

05/30/2026

Nearly 1 in 2 teens will experience a mental health disorder at some point—and many signs are easy to miss.

From anxiety and depression to ADHD and eating disorders, understanding what’s normal vs. concerning can make all the difference.

Learn the 5 most common mental health disorders in adolescents, the warning signs to watch for, and how early support can change outcomes.

Adolescence, commonly defined as ages 10-19 years old, is a time of change, growth, and self-discovery. The time between childhood and adulthood is also a period when many mental health disorders begin to emerge.

05/29/2026

A better night’s sleep is now closer to home.

The Sleep Lab at Butler Memorial Hospital has been renovated to create a more comfortable, hotel‑like environment for adults and children ages 3 and older undergoing overnight sleep studies. The updated space includes larger rooms with full‑size beds, room for parents or caregivers to stay overnight, and upgraded amenities—all designed to improve the patient and family experience.

The sleep lab is open seven days a week and located on the hospital’s 4 North unit.

To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 855‑431‑1881.

The sleep lab is now located on the hospital’s 4 North unit and is open seven days a week, providing testing for children 3 and older and adults.