Healthcare Security Challenges Need a Smart Prescription

by Mr. Ashish P. Dhakan, MD & CEO, Prama Hikvision India Private Limited

The Healthcare Security is again back in the focus due to various security incidents in the hospital premises across India. The burgeoning healthcare infrastructure and its evolving security challenges are causing huge concerns for citizens, doctors and all the stakeholders. These healthcare facilities need a smart prescription of physical security solutions.They need to treat all the key concerns in a holistic manner.

Overview

These various Indian healthcare facilities are diversified yet fragmented; these include government hospitals and private healthcare centres. India offers unique services for all the segments of healthcare. The urban private healthcare centres in the Metro cities and Tier –II and Tier –III cities are providing the medical services to a growing population.  Healthcare industry in India comprises of hospitals, medical devices, clinical trials, outsourcing, telemedicine, medical tourism, health insurance, and medical equipment. The healthcare sector is growing at a tremendous pace owing to its strengthening coverage, services, and increasing expenditure by public as well private players.

Key Concerns

In order to address the burgeoning concern about the discrepancies in healthcare security systems in India, the outdated healthcare security system needs a technological boost. It is essential to enhance regulatory systems and ensure that the healthcare security best practices are followed. They are as follows: open communication, patient safety, and a quality improvement culture . The healthcare workers should be provided adequate security while they are on duty. The use of digital health tools and technology to help with data gathering, analysis, and clinical outcome monitoring should be encouraged. The data security and physical security  best practices should be followed.

Security Challenges

The vast healthcare system in India  faces several contemporary security challenges. Many healthcare facilities lack modern infrastructure, leading to overcrowding and insufficient resources. There is a significant shortage of trained healthcare professionals, which affects the quality of care. With the increasing use of digital health records and telemedicine, protecting patient data from breaches and cyberattacks is a major concern. These healthcare facilities lack robust security measures.  They are vulnerable to theft, vandalism, and other security threats. There were several cases reported in the recent past, where doctors and medical staff were attacked after the dispute. There is a growing concern for security in the hospital premises. The unauthorised entry by visitors in the sensitive areas like OPD, Intensive Care Unit, Operation Theatre and Patient Wards are common concerns.

Advanced Security Solutions for Healthcare Sector

Hikvision offers healthcare solutions, which are designed to create a safer, more efficient healthcare environment for everyone. There are several physical security solutions that can help protect healthcare workers, doctors, patients, and staff. Hikvision offers a range of solutions designed to enhance security and patient safety in different kind of healthcare facilities.

Advanced Video Security Cameras: High-definition cameras with advanced features like motion detection, night vision, and facial recognition help monitor sensitive areas and deter unauthorized access.

Facial Recognition Terminals & Biometric Access Control Systems: These systems use key cards, biometric scanners, or PIN codes to ensure that only authorized personnel can enter restricted areas.

Panic Alarm Systems: Integrated panic alarms allow staff to quickly alert security personnel in case of an emergency.

Integrated Security Systems: Hikvision’s solutions seamlessly integrate video security, access control, and alarm systems, making setup and daily operations more efficient.

Remote Monitoring: Healthcare facilities can monitor security systems remotely, allowing for real-time response to any incidents.

Data Protection: Advanced cybersecurity measures protect sensitive patient data from breaches and cyberattacks.

Motion Sensors: Installed in critical areas, motion sensors can detect any unusual activity and trigger alarms or notifications.

Role-Based Permissions: Access control systems can be configured to grant different levels of access based on the role of the individual, ensuring that only those who need access to certain areas or information can get it.

Security Personnel: Trained security staff can provide an additional layer of protection, responding quickly to any security incidents.

These solutions create a safer and more efficient healthcare environment, ensuring the well-being of patients, staff, and visitors.

Future Trends

The future trends in healthcare security are evolving with smart technologies and solutions. Smart healthcare security involves the use of advanced technologies to protect healthcare systems, patient data, and ensure the safety of patients and staff.

By integrating Smart technologies (Internet of Medical things (IoMT), Artificial AI, Blockchain, Robotics and other advanced technologies, smart healthcare security, one can  ensure the safety and privacy of patients and healthcare workers while enhancing the overall efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare services.