UP Health System - Bell

05/28/2026

May is Stroke Awareness Month, and knowing the warning signs of stroke can make all the difference. When every second matters, recognizing symptoms and acting FAST could help save a life.

If you or someone you know experiences signs of a stroke, contact emergency services right away at 911. At UP Health System – Bell, specializing in you means helping our community recognize stroke symptoms and take quick action when it matters most.

Learn more about stroke:
https://www.uphealthsystem.com/stroke

Take our Stroke Health Risk Assessment:
https://www.uphealthsystem.com/health-risk.../stroke-risk

05/28/2026

At UP Health System, protecting patient privacy is one of our highest priorities.

During registration, patients are asked whether they would like to be included in the hospital directory — an important choice that helps determine how information is shared during their stay.

Understanding how these privacy preferences work can help patients and families better navigate communication during a hospital stay while ensuring every patient’s wishes are respected.

Learn more about patient privacy, hospital directory preferences and our commitment to compassionate, confidential care:

https://www.uphealthsystem.com/news/2026/05/27/understanding-patient-privacy-and-the-hospital-directory

At UP Health System, protecting patient privacy is one of our highest priorities. During registration, patients are asked whether they would like to be included in the hospital directory.

05/28/2026

With the returning warm weather, many are turning to outdoor recreation. However, it's worth remembering that your skin is worth protecting. Most skin cancers are caused from too much exposure to ultraviolet light; the radiation coming from the sun, tanning beds and sunlamps.

Common talking points for sun protection involve reapplying sunscreen every 90 minutes, wearing hats and not underestimating UV rays on a cloudy day. However, here are three ways to protect yourself that you might not have heard before:

- Applying sunscreen underneath clothing. If you hold a shirt up to the light and can still see the sun through it, then that means the sun will reach your skin underneath. Any exposure means potential for sunburn, if you're outside long enough. To plan around this, apply sunscreen before you get dressed, instead of after.

- Your scalp can get sunburned, so pay close attention to what you have up there. If you're not wearing a hat, or have thin hair or notable parting line, consider applying sunscreen to the top of your head.

- The sun can find you in the shade. If you're spending time outside under an awning, scan your surroundings. The sun's rays can bounce off a reflective lake or window, exposing you to UV rays despite the shade of a tree or umbrella.

For more info on sun safety, visit https://www.cdc.gov/skin-cancer/sun-safety/index.html

05/26/2026

Sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes are common in the spring, but how do you know if it’s allergies or a cold? Our latest blog breaks down the key differences, what symptoms to watch for, and how to choose the right treatment. https://uphealthsystem.com/health-resources/posts/2026/04/20/spring-allergies-or-a-cold--how-to-tell-the-difference?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=allergies_blog

05/25/2026

Today, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

Their courage, dedication and selflessness will never be forgotten.

This Memorial Day, all of us at UP Health System – Bell extend our deepest gratitude to the fallen heroes and their families. We remember those who gave everything for the freedoms we enjoy each day.

Wishing our community a safe and meaningful Memorial Day.

05/22/2026

Meet Ashley Hill, RN, one of our UP Health System – Bell heroes.

Ashley is an infusion nurse, responsible for running IV's, infusions and closely monitoring patients. It's a role which blends quiet precision and a love for face-to-face interaction with patients.

When asked about her inspiration for getting into healthcare, Ashley said "I went into nursing so I can help others. I like working on my feet and interacting with my patients. I like seeing patients get their health back on track."

Thank you Ashley, for your compassion and care for our community.

What is your role at UPHS – Bell? I'm an infusion nurse at UPHS – Bell.

05/21/2026

May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month! We honor the remarkable contributions of these communities, in healthcare and across every part of our society. Their talent and dedication inspire us all. Join us in recognizing and celebrating their impact and excellence!

05/19/2026

Spring has returned to Upper Michigan — and so have the mosquitoes, ticks and other biting insects that come with it.

UP Health System encourages everyone to take a few simple precautions to help prevent insect bites and protect their health while enjoying time outdoors this season:

- Wear clothing that covers exposed skin. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing can help reduce the chance of insect bites while also providing protection from the sun.
- Treat bites with a cold compress. Applying a cold pack wrapped in a cloth to the affected area for about 20 minutes can help reduce swelling and relieve itching.
- Use EPA-registered insect repellents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends EPA-registered repellents, including options considered safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

With a little preparation, you can safely enjoy the warmer weather and everything spring has to offer.



https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/prevention/index.html

05/18/2026

May is Stroke Month, a time to raise awareness about stroke prevention, recognition and treatment.

Strokes are the number five killer and leading cause of disability in the U.S. And while some risk factors beyond your control, the good news is that up to 80 percent of strokes are preventable.

And the most controllable risk? High blood pressure.

Keep track of your blood pressure and talk to your primary care provider about how to keep it at healthy levels.

Need a primary care doctor? Visit https://www.uphealthsystem.com/find-a-doctor