The more you know, the healthier you live. UPMC HealthBeat is committed to providing accurate, relevant health information from the experts at UPMC.

UPMC: A Leading Health Care System

UPMC is a world-renowned, nonprofit health care provider and insurer committed to delivering exceptional, people-centered care and community services. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pa., and affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, UPMC is shaping the future of health through clinical and technological innovation, research, and education.

We are dedicated to advancing the well-being of our diverse communities. We provide more than $1 billion in annual community benefits, more than any other health system in Pennsylvania.

UPMC’s footprint includes:

• 100,000 employees, including more than 5,000 physicians.
• 40 hospitals.
• 800 doctors’ offices and outpatient sites.
• Locations throughout Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland, as well as international locations.

UPMC Insurance Services covers more than 4 million members with a focus on providing the highest-quality care at the most affordable price.

U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside as the top hospital in Pittsburgh and one of the nation’s top hospitals in many specialties. UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh consistently ranks on U.S. News’ Honor Roll of Best Children’s Hospitals.

To learn more about the care we provide, visit UPMC.com.

What Is UPMC HealthBeat?

Finding accurate, trustworthy health information online can be an overwhelming task. That’s where we come in.

UPMC HealthBeat is UPMC’s blog for health and wellness information. We publish vetted, quality articles on the topics that matter most to you and your loved ones.

We know how important your health and the health of your loved ones are to you. We take that responsibility seriously. Backed by the expertise of UPMC, we aim to provide you with relevant, easy-to-understand health information.

However, our content is not a substitute for information or advice you receive from a medical professional. If you have a question about your health, we encourage you to contact a health care provider.

How We Create Content

We strive for editorial integrity by producing accurate, objective, and easy-to-understand content for the public. We have an in-house editorial staff that works to develop stories that inform our audience.

A team of seasoned writers produces the content. We draw our information from trustworthy sources, including UPMC clinicians, peer-reviewed medical journals, government agencies, and other respected health organizations. Our articles often include interviews with UPMC
experts who specialize in the topic at hand.

Our articles undergo several rounds of reviews before publishing, including a medical review by experienced UPMC clinical experts.

Our editorial team includes:

• Authors — Experienced writers who research topics, conduct interviews, and write articles.
• Editors — Professionals who review content for grammar, style, clarity, readability, and more.
• Search engine optimization (SEO) specialists — Experts who help to identify content gaps, research keywords, and create content outlines that meet people’s search interests.
• UPMC medical experts — UPMC medical professionals who review articles for medical accuracy. Each article is reviewed by a medical expert who specializes in the given topic.

Artificial intelligence

Our editorial team has evaluated the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in content development.

We may use AI software as a guide during the content development process, helping us create readable content that is optimized for search engines. Our editorial team then edits that content and ensures accuracy and quality. No content is created solely with AI, and AI tools are not a substitute for our review process.

How We Select Content

Our goal is simple: We look to create content that educates you about relevant health and wellness topics. Our content includes a mix of explainers, news, emerging trends, patient stories, and seasonal topics. We strive to produce content that is clinically significant for our audience.

As part of UPMC’s commitment to dignity and respect, we aim to produce stories that meet the needs of our entire community.

We know there are many sources for health and wellness information out there. We hope to give you what you need.

For complete information about UPMC’s digital content and online services, please see our Website Terms of Use.