The healthcare industry operates in a unique environment, balancing patient care with stringent security measures. Daniel Henderson, an expert in healthcare security from Regional One Health in Memphis, Tennessee, shares valuable insights into how the industry navigates these challenges.

1. Balancing Patient Care and Security Measures

Henderson emphasizes the importance of involving peers in identifying opportunities to create a safe environment. He states, "Healthcare Security focuses on involving our peers when identifying opportunities to provide a safe and secure environment for our patients, staff, and visitors. We develop diverse committees to mitigate risk, develop policies and identify opportunities throughout the organization."

2. Mitigating Physical Security Threats

Workplace violence is a significant challenge in healthcare, with Henderson acknowledging its daily occurrence. To address this, he mentions the implementation of Listening Sessions, stating, "We have established a system to provide a listening ear to the concerns of staff by holding Listening Sessions." These sessions allow for open communication and updates on safety measures.

3. Managing Access Control

Access control is crucial in healthcare, especially in sensitive areas. Henderson outlines the importance of policies, procedures, and designated access custodians. He adds, "We have created access custodians for areas to provide approval for access requests to select areas."

4. Protecting Against Theft and Unauthorized Access

To prevent theft and unauthorized access to prescription drugs and medical equipment, Henderson highlights the use of alarm systems, access controls, and technology. He states, "Security has alarm systems and access controls in place to protect against pharmacy theft."

5. Safeguarding Patient Information

Henderson discusses the detailed process implemented to protect Electronic Health Records (EHR) and patient information. This includes system additions, staff training, and reminders of basic security protocols.

6. Securing IoT Medical Devices

Regarding the increased use of IoT medical devices, Henderson notes, "Our IT department manages our Network and ensures all necessary protections are in place to protect and prevent any attack on our systems."

7. Integrating Emergency Preparedness

Emergency preparedness is a priority, with continuous training and drills to ensure staff readiness. Henderson emphasizes, "Security and Safety are at the forefront of Emergency Management. We drill and train continuously to ensure the readiness of our staff."

8. Adapting to COVID-19 Challenges

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare facilities have adjusted security measures for infection control and visitor management. Henderson notes the implementation of secure visitation hours and consistent communication to prevent lapses.

9. Addressing Workplace Violence

To address workplace violence, Henderson mentions comprehensive training programs, including de-escalation training, situational awareness training, and security awareness conversations.

10. Balancing Security and Welcoming Environments

Partnering with vendors for customer service training, Henderson states, "We partner with our vendor partners to offer customer service training to our guards to add a welcoming environment to all of our customers."

11. Role of Video Surveillance

Video surveillance plays a crucial role in healthcare security, providing information, analytics, and protection against false claims. Henderson emphasizes its role in accountability, stating, "Surveillance plays the same role in providing information and analytics and protects us from false claims of injuries."

In conclusion, the healthcare industry, under the guidance of experts like Daniel Henderson, continues to evolve its security measures to create a safe and welcoming environment for patients, staff, and visitors. The integration of technology, training programs, and proactive approaches ensures the ongoing adaptability of healthcare security in the face of complex challenges.