Can there be too much hospital security?

Facilities question whether their security plans are enough - or too much


After recent incidents, healthcare facilities are questioning whether their security plans are enough — or too much, according to an article on the Fierce Healthcare website.

A November study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, said that increased violence prevention efforts by hospitals will save lives — and money. And "even if the intervention cost a little more than it saved in dollars and cents to the healthcare system, there would still be a net benefit in terms of the violence it prevented," Jonathan Purtle, Ph.D., one of the study authors, said.

Some feel that adding extra security measures such as metal detectors or even a hospital-specific police force would send the wrong message to patients.

Despite a recent violent incident, the Exodus Mental Health Urgent Care Center in California does not provide its guards with weapons and doesn't plan to, according to the L.A. Daily News. It also doesn't use metal detectors because the agency wants the facility to feel "warm and homelike." 

Read the article.

 

 



February 2, 2015


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

Containing Candida Auris Across the Care Continuum

Containment becomes achievable, sustainable and far more effective for facilities that follow the same precautions, disinfectant standards and equipment rules.


Early Entry: Manager's Critical Role in Construction Planning

Facilities managers should seek a seat at the table early to shape decisions that affect operations and continuity of care from the onset.


OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital Earns Critical Access Hospital Designation

The program was established to help rural hospitals maintain local access to care by providing additional flexibility through a cost-based Medicare reimbursement model.


Designing a Home Away from Home

Ronald McDonald House Atlanta balances the familiarity of home with the demands of a high-use facility serving families of children receiving medical care.


Stephens County Hospital Becoming Part of Wellstar Health System

The transaction is expected to be completed toward the end of 2026, pending the conclusion of regulatory approvals.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.