Virtual security hub expands to eighth country site
L-R: Registered Nurse Loren Van Der Merwe, Security Guard Junior Rima, Registered Nurse Sini Joseph and Director of Nursing/Health Service Manager Candice Fitts.
WA Country Health Service (WACHS) has expanded its state-of-the-art security hub to Fitzroy Crossing Hospital.
Operating out of the organisation’s 24/7 CCTV Operations Room, specialist closed-circuit television (CCTV) technology enables real-time support for regional hospitals and health services.
Operated by security personnel, the service has proven to enhance safety and deter antisocial behaviour at hospitals since going live at seven pilot sites in March.
WA Country Health Service Chief Executive Jeff Moffet said the expansion is providing another layer of security for frontline healthcare workers.
“Violence against healthcare staff is completely unacceptable,” Mr Moffet said.
“And we know it’s on the rise – that’s why we’re harnessing technology and using other innovative methods to keep our people safe.”
Mr Moffet said the service was already enhancing safety in Fitzroy.
“Just a few weeks ago during a virtual patrol our team were able to quickly respond to some individuals behaving poorly out the front of the hospital,” he said.
“They immediately alerted on-the-ground security who took steps to make sure patients and staff were safe.”
Fitzroy Crossing Operations Manager Tammie Joseph said the expansion to site had already had a positive impact on staff.
“It gives everyone peace of mind,” she said.
“We’re hearing directly from our nurses and doctors that the eyes on screen mean when things are seen, they can be flagged right away, reported, and de-escalated before they even become an issue.”
In Fitzroy Crossing, the 24/7 service conducts coordinated patrols virtually and can quickly contact security personnel on-the-ground at the hospital and assist them with de-escalation.
The advanced security monitoring builds upon existing security measures such as on-the-ground CCTV and security personnel, duress alarms and access control systems.
The virtual service is currently operational in Kununurra, Halls Creek, Hedland, Karratha, Meekatharra, Collie and Bridgetown with further expansion earmarked for 2024.