There’s no argument that healthcare facilities depend on robust physical and cybersecurity systems. Those in the field know that healthcare providers are four to five times more likely to be a victim of workplace violence than in any other field. Healthcare facilities are also targets for data theft as well as pharmaceutical theft.
Some of the many risk factors include:
- Inadequate security staff
- Inadequate and disparate security technologies
- Lack of means of emergency communication
- Unrestricted public access
- Lack of training and policies for staff
Very often, one of the most significant barriers is budgeting for and implementing the right security technologies. But with threats constantly evolving and technologies advancing, how do you know where to start? Here are the three steps for budgeting for healthcare security.
Get a Security Risk Assessment
Work with a security professional to conduct a systematic analysis and review of your facility’s current security measures and identify current and evolving threats. Analyze the impact of each identified threat and establish criteria to prioritize their mitigation.
Conduct a Security System Audit
Identify each component of your cyber and physical security systems, age, failure rates, and capabilities. The process should be expansive. Remember that all security technologies have an estimated lifespan that varies depending on the type of technology, manufacturer, usage, maintenance, and other factors.
How to Identify Gaps in Security
- Identify areas not covered by surveillance
- Note high-trafficked areas lacking visibility and access control
- Identify spaces that should have controlled access
- Evaluate IT systems for levels of access
Estimating Costs
Once you have an idea of security needs and the options for meeting them, it is possible to estimate the cost of your security program. It is important to work with a security integrator with experience in healthcare security systems to help develop a system proposal and list of estimated costs. A skilled integrator can make multiple recommendations at various price points and provide information on the different options.
During this process, there are several things to consider, including:
- Cost of the system and installation
- Cost of hardware and software components
- Maintenance costs
- Cost of replacement and upgrade
- Estimated lifecycle
- Ways the system can save money and prevent losses (such as reduced false alarms, fraud and theft deterrence, and improved efficiency)
Understanding these elements will allow the facility to budget for maintenance, upgrades, and repairs and preserve the lifespan of the equipment.
Moon Security | Commercial Security
With 60 years of expertise and premier certifications, Moon is ranked as a Leading Security Provider in the U.S., Specializing in security systems for healthcare, the company offers a range of services that include security, fire and life safety, video surveillance, access control, cyber security, and identity theft solutions. For more information, call 800-722-1070.
Call 800-722-1070 or Contact Us for more information.
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