Security Remains Top Priority At L.A. Hospitals
Security is a dominant concern for open-door institutions, especially hospitals. Safeguarding medical facilities against such criminal activities as theft, vandalism, violent threats and infant abduction is a round-the-clock rule of engagement. It requires an integrated protection system that operates proficiently.
"Hospitals are constantly evolving ecosystems with patients arriving, being discharged, and family and friends rotating through our common areas," said Mark Miller, Director of Business Development at Marina Del Rey Hospital. "Hospital security is based on a calm balance of patient access, public safety, and awareness of daily hospital flow."
What defines a well-run security system?
"An efficiently executed hospital security system is one that visitors do not recognize, but it is ever-present and aware of patients, employees and visitors."
How has your hospital strengthened its security system?
"We instituted a quiet time every afternoon from two to four, where our hall lights are dimmed and our employees lower their speaking volume to a calming tone. During this time, we are able to tighten our security measures and prepare for the late discharges and admissions."
What differentiates hospital security guards?
"Hospital security guards must be more aware of privacy issues and patient confidentiality. Patients entrust hospitals with their care during their most vulnerable time, and our security personnel are key members of the health care team."
How will hospital security change in the coming years?
"In 2022, current innovations, like geolocation devices to maintain awareness of all patients and employees, will become more common. As with many cultural evolutions, the most innovative hospitals will adopt applications initially proven in the military."
How does one secure a lasting vocation in hospital security?
"It helps to maintain your personal fitness and educate yourself on security applications being deployed throughout the military and at major hospitals."
What is your message to job seekers interested in hospital security?
"I advise them to explore college courses and degrees focusing on institutional security and consider a military background as a foundation to build a hospital security career. Ultimately, hospital security is an integral member of the patient care team, so the behavioral sciences would also be helpful."
Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.
