Florida Healthcare System Launches New Security Protocols

Florida Healthcare System Launches New Security Protocols

Florida hospitals install new security protocols aimed at visitor management.

A system of healthcare facilities are focusing on visitor management in a series of new security protocols added this week.

Patients, employees and the public can now feel a little safer in hospitals operated by NCH Healthcare System with the launch of new security measures focused on keeping track of those who enter the facilities.

All visitors must present a driver's license or identification card with a photograph in the lobby to be issues a visitor badge, the director of security John Griffith said. For those who don't have an ID card with a photo, the hospital has a camera set up to take the individual's photo for issuing a temporary hospital pass. 

Visitors can only gain access at the main entrances of the hospitals or in the emergency room. Getting the temporary hospital pass only takes about 20 seconds.

The hospital has had cameras and security officers for years, but says the new visitor management system is the next step in boosting security.

"This gives us an opportunity to have a little face-to-face time with everyone," Griffith said.

Dr. Allen Weiss, president and chief executive officer of NCH, said adding the new security protocols has been in the works for a while.

"Life is changing," Weiss said. "Our public schools have a system that is similar to what we've implemented. We just wanted to be a little more proactive in our approach with who is in our buildings."

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.

Featured

  • Electrified Latch Retraction Locks Key Benefits for Retrofits

    Building owners and facility managers increasingly rely on electrified hardware to enhance security while meeting accessibility standards. Among these technologies, electrified or motorized latch retraction locks are especially effective for retrofit projects where existing door and frame conditions complicate upgrades. Latch retraction capable locks combine security, accessibility and code compliance benefits, making them ideal for retrofitting fire-rated and non-rated openings in schools, healthcare facilities, commercial buildings and more. Read Now

  • How Cloud Security Solutions Are Transforming Campus Safety

    Campus administrators today face a challenging mandate: deliver stronger security across their facilities while working within tighter budget constraints. From school districts focused on student safety to hospitals protecting patients and staff, the question remains the same: how do you build security infrastructure that evolves with your needs without requiring massive capital investments? Read Now

  • Rethinking Campus Security From the Inside

    For decades, campus security strategies focused on keeping threats outside school walls. But since the tragedy at Columbine High School, data has shown that many attacks begin inside the building, often in classrooms and corridors. This shift has prompted schools to rethink security from the inside and place greater emphasis on interior elements such as classroom doors. This shift is evidenced by a new generation of classroom door systems engineered to delay inside intruders and an ASTM standard that raises the bar on how these systems must be designed to defend against attack. Read Now

  • AI in Security: Advancing Campus Safety and Considerations for Implementing

    Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to capture attention across every sector, and the physical security industry is no exception. Once seen as experimental, AI-enabled analytics now underpin how organizations monitor environments, detect threats, and make decisions. What was once futuristic is now a practical necessity for safety professionals managing growing volumes of data, tighter resources, and increasing expectations for faster, more accurate responses. Read Now