Providing necessary care and resources to patients with heart attack symptoms

ISHPEMING, HANCOCK, Mich. (Aug. 7, 2025) — The American College of Cardiology (ACC) has recognized UP Health System – Bell (UPHS – Bell) and UP Health System – Portage (UPHS – Portage) for their demonstrated expertise and commitment in treating patients with chest pain. Both Bell and Portage were awarded Chest Pain Center Accreditation in August based on rigorous onsite evaluation of the staff’s ability to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients who may be experiencing a heart attack.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women and people of most racial and ethnic groups. One person dies every 34 seconds from cardiovascular disease. The most common symptom of a heart attack for both men and women is chest pain or discomfort. However, women are more likely to have atypical symptoms. Other heart attack symptoms include tingling or discomfort in one or both arms, back, shoulder, neck or jaw; shortness of breath; cold sweat; unusual tiredness; a heartburn-like feeling; nausea or vomiting; sudden dizziness; and fainting.

Hospitals that have earned ACC Chest Pain Center Accreditation have proven exceptional competency in treating patients with heart attack symptoms. They have streamlined their systems from admission to evaluation to diagnosis and treatment all the way through to appropriate post-discharge care and recommendations and assistance in patient lifestyle changes.

“UPHS – Bell and UPHS – Portage have demonstrated their commitment to providing the Upper Peninsula with excellent heart care,” said Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, MPH, FACC, chair of the ACC Accreditation Management Board. “ACC Accreditation Services is proud to award UPHS – Bell and UPHS – Portage with Chest Pain Center Accreditation.”

Hospitals receiving Chest Pain Center Accreditation from the ACC must take part in a multifaceted clinical process that involves completing a gap analysis; examining variances of care, developing an action plan; a rigorous onsite review; and monitoring for sustained success. Improved methods and strategies of caring for patients include streamlining processes, implementing guidelines and standards, and adopting best practices in the care of patients experiencing the signs and symptoms of a heart attack. Facilities that achieve accreditation meet or exceed an array of stringent criteria and have organized a team of doctors, nurses, clinicians and other administrative staff that earnestly support the efforts leading to better patient education and improved patient outcomes.

“This accreditation reflects the strength of our system and the commitment of our teams to deliver timely, evidence-based cardiac care,” said Ryan Heinonen, chief executive officer of UP Health System – Portage. “We’re proud to be recognized by the ACC and grateful for the ongoing collaboration among our clinicians, staff and partners that makes this level of care possible for our community.”

“This recognition speaks volumes about the dedication of our frontline caregivers and the quality of care they provide every day,” said UPHS – Bell Chief Operating Officer Alyson Sundberg. “Our team goes above and beyond to make sure patients in our community receive fast, expert care when it matters most, and we’re honored to be acknowledged for that commitment.”

To assess your heart health, take our free online heart health assessment. To speak with a provider, call 844.411.UPHS (8747) or visit the “Find a Provider” tab at UPHealthSystem.com to schedule an appointment. In an emergency, call 911. Minutes matter — acting quickly can save a life.

Meet our Heart and Vascular team. 

Learn more about our Heart and Vascular team, heart attack warning signs and our cardiac accreditations at UP Health System.

The ACC offers U.S. and international hospitals like UPHS – Bell and UPHS – Portage access to a comprehensive suite of cardiac accreditation services designed to optimize patient outcomes and improve hospital financial performance. These services are focused on all aspects of cardiac care, including emergency treatment of heart attacks. 

About the American College of Cardiology

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is the global leader in transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health for all. As the preeminent source of professional medical education for the entire cardiovascular care team since 1949, ACC credentials cardiovascular professionals in over 140 countries who meet stringent qualifications and leads in the formation of health policy, standards and guidelines. Through its world-renowned family of JACC Journals, NCDR registries, ACC Accreditation Services, global network of Member Sections, CardioSmart patient resources and more, the College is committed to ensuring a world where science, knowledge and innovation optimize patient care and outcomes. Learn more at acc.org.