Addressing security challenges in healthcare

Note: This post was updated in October 2024 with new information on hospital security.

Hospitals are among the most complex and active environments, operating 24/7/365. Unlike nearly any other business, they face unique security challenges due to the constant flow of patients, staff, and visitors.

The most pressing physical security challenges faced by the healthcare vertical today include:

1. Violence against staff
2. Trespassing incidents
3. Patient elopements/patient wandering
4. Issues controlling hospital access
5. Auto thefts or car break-ins

Identifying and Mitigating Security Challenges

Combating these security challenges begins with conducting comprehensive security and risk assessments, which often involve both internal resources and external expertise such as a security consultant and/or a qualified integrator.

1. Violence Against Staff

   Violence against healthcare workers occurs at rates up to 12 times higher than those for the overall workforce, according to statistics from the Government Accountability Office. This alarming trend prompted the House of Representatives to pass a bill in November 2019 requiring OSHA to develop rules to protect healthcare workers from workplace violence.

   Solutions:

   • Panic Buttons: Installing panic buttons in high-risk areas can mitigate danger for hospital staff and visitors, allowing them to quickly alert internal security and local law enforcement when a situation escalates.
   • Lockdown Capabilities: Integrating lockdown capabilities with access control and video monitoring systems ensures swift and effective responses during violent incidents.
     
     
2. Trespassing Incidents

   Hospitals are often targeted by trespassers due to their open-door policies and extensive facilities. Unauthorized individuals can pose significant risks to both people and property.

   Solutions:

   • Access Control Systems: Advanced access control systems restrict unauthorized entry, ensuring only authorized personnel and visitors gain access to sensitive areas.
   • Visitor Management Systems: Implementing visitor management systems that require check-ins, ID verification, or photographing can significantly reduce unauthorized access.
     
     
3. Patient Elopements/Patient Wandering

   Patient elopement, or wandering, especially among vulnerable populations like the elderly or mentally ill, can lead to severe consequences including injury or death.

   Solutions:

   • Wander Management Systems: Implement systems specifically designed to monitor and manage patients prone to wandering, alerting staff if a patient leaves a designated area.
   • RFID and GPS Tracking: Utilize RFID or GPS-enabled devices to monitor patient locations in real-time.
     
     
4. Issues Controlling Hospital Access

   Managing access is particularly challenging due to multiple entrances, the urgency of emergency department arrivals, and the need to welcome visitors. Only 42% of hospitals surveyed by ASHE reported having a visitor management system in place.

   Solutions:

   • Advanced Access Control Systems: Implement systems that use key cards, biometrics, and mobile credentials to streamline access while maintaining security.
   • After-Hours Visitor Management: Enforce after-hours check-in procedures where all visitors must obtain a visitor pass, enhancing control during off-peak hours.
     
     
5. Auto Thefts or Car Break-Ins

   Hospital parking lots can be hotspots for auto theft and break-ins due to the high volume of vehicles and varying levels of surveillance.

   Solutions:

   • Video Surveillance: Deploy high-definition digital cameras with pan, tilt, and zoom capabilities to monitor parking areas and detect suspicious activities.
   • Lighting and Patrols: Adequate lighting and regular security patrols can deter potential criminals and provide a rapid response to incidents.

Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Security

Video Surveillance

Video surveillance is a critical component of hospital security. It provides oversight in parking lots, document storage areas, pharmacies, cafeterias, gift shops, and vital patient areas such as obstetrics and emergency rooms.

Technological Advancements:

• High-Definition Cameras: Modern cameras offer crystal-clear imagery and advanced functionalities like pan, tilt, and zoom, enabling detailed monitoring.
• AI and Analytics: Utilizing AI and advanced analytics, these systems can detect unusual patterns and behaviors, triggering real-time alerts for immediate action.
• Integrated Systems: Combining video surveillance with access control, alarm systems, and communication networks provides a holistic security solution.

Proactive Video Monitoring

Proactive video monitoring takes security a step further by implementing real-time surveillance strategies that not only capture footage but also actively analyze it. This approach enables security personnel to identify potential threats as they occur, rather than simply reviewing recorded footage after an incident.

Key Features:

• Live Monitoring: Security staff can observe video feeds in real-time, allowing for immediate intervention when suspicious activities are detected.
• Motion Detection Alerts: Advanced systems can be configured to send instant alerts when movement is detected in restricted areas, ensuring prompt response capabilities.
• Remote Access: Security teams can access camera feeds remotely, providing flexibility and enhanced oversight, especially during off-peak hours when on-site personnel may be limited.

Through proactive video monitoring, hospitals can significantly increase their response effectiveness, thereby enhancing overall safety and security for patients, staff, and visitors alike.

Access Control

Effective access control goes beyond simply locking doors. It involves managing who can enter which areas and when, thereby preventing unauthorized access.

Advanced Solutions:

• Biometric Authentication: Enhanced security with fingerprint or facial recognition systems.
• Mobile Credentials: Use of smartphones as secure access keys, reducing reliance on physical cards and keys.
• Geo-Fencing: Establishes virtual boundaries within the facility, triggering alerts if individuals cross into restricted zones.

Addressing security challenges in the healthcare industry is essential for ensuring the safety of staff, patients, and visitors. By conducting thorough security assessments and leveraging advanced technologies, hospitals can create a secure environment that meets their unique needs. Partnering with a capable security integrator provides access to the latest technology and the expertise needed to maximize the effectiveness of security systems.