A Florida hospital's active shooter plan prevented a random shooting that resulted in the death of a patient and staff member from escalating beyond the violence that occurred, according to an article on the Health Facilities Management website.
Law enforcement officials credited Parrish Medical Center's active shooter plan, established in 2008, and security guards who confronted and held the assailant until police arrived with saving lives.
Parrish maintains a law enforcement presence and enhanced security at public entrances, restricts public access to the main entrance and emergency department by requesting identification, and conducts random bag checks.
Security officers are now armed with additional protective equipment and gear and are receiving more training. The health system also is considering installing metal detectors and other equipment to identify prohibited items.
The Growing Crisis in Rural Healthcare Facilities
A Cleaning Alternative: The Benefits of Steam Technology
Novant Health Gets Approval for New Hospital and Freestanding Emergency Department
Preparing Healthcare Facilities for Severe Thunderstorms
NLCS Strengthens Safety and Compliance with Comprehensive Electrical Program