Willamette Valley Medical Center

09/03/2026

Willamette Valley Medical Center (WVMC) is making it easier than ever for women to prioritize their health by expanding weekend availability for screening mammograms exams.

Beginning Saturday September 26th, 35 additional appointment slots are available each weekend:

Saturday Appointments - 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Sunday Appointments - 6:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

"Early detection plays a vital role in preventing and treating disease, and we know that busy schedules can make it difficult for many people to prioritize these important screenings," said Webster Cass, director of Radiology & PACS Administrator. "By adding staff and offering weekend appointments, we're providing greater flexibility and helping patients access care when it's most convenient for them."

The expanded hours are expected to significantly reduce lead times for the next available appointment, allowing patients to schedule preventive screenings sooner. Patients will also benefit from a streamlined check-in experience through WVMC's dedicated outpatient registration representative, eliminating the need to register through Emergency Department admitting windows.

Routine mammograms remain one of the most effective tools for early detection of breast cancer. Screenings play a critical role in helping patients maintain long-term health and wellness. WVMC encourages patients to talk with their healthcare provider about recommended screening schedules and take advantage of the new weekend availability.

To schedule a mammogram, call 503-435-4540.

09/03/2026

Flu season typically runs from October through May, with peak activity between December and February. Getting your flu shot now gives your body time to build immunity before the virus starts spreading widely. It's recommended for anyone 6 months and older. Have you scheduled yours yet?

09/02/2026

Recovery is not a destination, but a journey of courage, perseverance, and hope. During National Recovery Month, we celebrate the individuals whose stories inspire us, the loved ones who stand beside them, and the communities that support healing every step of the way. Recovery is possible, and every step forward deserves recognition.

09/01/2026

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, but it's also one of the most treatable when caught early. Risk factors like age, family history and race can affect your odds, and early stages often come with no symptoms at all. Visit willamettevalleymedical.com to find a provider and talk about when to start screening. We’re here with care that specializes in you when you need it.

08/31/2026

We are excited to introduce a new PatientTrak self-check-in kiosk in the hospital lobby, giving patients a faster, more convenient way to start their visit.

The kiosk allows patients with scheduled hospital appointments to check themselves into the registration queue upon arrival, eliminating the need stop at the information desk before beginning the registration process.

“We are always looking for opportunities to make healthcare more accessible, efficient and patient-centered,” said Dewane Pace, CEO. “This new self-check-in kiosk helps simplify the arrival process.”

Patients simply use the touchscreen kiosk and automatically join the registration queue then take a seat for an admitting representative to assist them. The kiosk complements, rather than replaces, the personal interaction patients have with WVMC's admitting team.

By streamlining the arrival process, WVMC expects to reduce congestion at the hospital entrance, minimize time spent standing in line, improve patient flow, and create a more comfortable experience for patients.

The PatientTrak kiosk is the first step in WVMC's ongoing efforts to improve the patient journey through innovative technology and efficient processes.

“As healthcare evolves, so do patient expectations,” said Pace. “We remain committed to finding innovative ways to improve convenience, efficiency and the overall experience for the patients and communities we serve.”

08/28/2026

Sharon is one of the first patients at Willamette Valley Medical Center’s H.R. Hoover, MD Cancer Center to receive Low Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT), a new treatment launched in December 2025 to help people living with painful osteoarthritis.

For more than 20 years, Sharon lived with stiffness, swelling, and worsening pain in her hands—pain that often woke her up at night. Tylenol helped her get through the day, but it never quieted the deep, persistent ache or restored the ease she once had using her hands. She remembers looking at an old photo with her husband, her hand resting on his shoulder. “I remember thinking I needed to hide my hands in all future photos,” she shared.

In January 2026, during a follow-up appointment, Sharon’s radiation oncologist, Dr. Kanwar, asked about a rheumatology referral noted in her chart. As Sharon described her symptoms, limited mobility, swelling, significant pain, and fingers that had gradually become misshapen, Dr. Kanwar offered an unexpected option: LDRT.

Low Dose Radiation Therapy is a noninvasive outpatient treatment that uses a fraction of the radiation typically used for cancer care to target inflammation in affected joints. The goal is to relieve pain, improve function, and preserve future treatment options. Sharon was immediately intrigued and decided to move forward.
In February, she completed six short treatments over two weeks. “It was easy, painless, and quick,” she said. “Everyone was so kind. Chad was the best and I was in and out before I knew it.”

Within weeks, Sharon noticed a dramatic change. Her nighttime pain faded, she no longer relied on Tylenol, and her dexterity slowly began to return. Then came a moment she’ll never forget. “I was on vacation and picked up a deck of cards and shuffled them without thinking,” she said. “I couldn’t believe it.”

“You couldn’t ask for a better facility,” said patient Sharon Depuy of her care at Willamette Valley Medical Center in McMinnville. Depuy received low-dose, targeted radiation treatments for arthritis right in her community, which she says has relieved pain and restored movement in her hands.

“We’re real lucky to have the hospital here.”

08/27/2026

Headaches are common and can often be linked to factors like stress, dehydration, lack of sleep, too much screen time, caffeine withdrawal or skipping meals. While most headaches improve with rest and self-care, it's important to know when symptoms may require medical attention.

08/25/2026

Cool, clammy skin or hot, flushed skin? Tired but alert, or confused and disoriented? The difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke can come down to minutes. Learn the warning signs of each and when to call 911: https://www.willamettevalleymedical.com/health-resources/posts/2026/07/30/heat-exhaustion-vs.-heat-stroke--how-to-tell-the-difference?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=heat_exhaustion_vs_heat_stroke_how_to_tell_the_difference

08/20/2026

Heart disease often develops silently, which is why preventive care matters. Schedule your annual check-up today to help identify risks early and support long-term heart health at willamettevalleymedical.com. Whether you're managing a condition or simply staying proactive, we're here with care specializing in you.

08/18/2026

⭐ Five Stars for a Fantastic Team! ⭐

Please join us in celebrating Audrey, Emily, and Mistyca from Short Stay and Pre-Op! A recent patient took the time to recognize their outstanding care, highlighting the compassion, communication, and support they provided from pre-op through recovery. We are proud of the difference these nurses make for our patients every day.