Issue link: https://securitytechnologyexecutive.epubxp.com/i/282968
www.SecurityInfoWatch.com he healthcare industry is no stranger to the growing security risks that exist in the world today. High-profile incidents such as the December, 2013 Renown Regional Medical Center shooting in Reno, NV, are a constant reminder that hospitals are fac- ing increased threats. Exposure to such threats—coupled with compliance and budgetary restraints—will put significant pressure on the healthcare security indus- try in 2014. On top of being the front line in protecting the lives of patients and employees, security will also affect many other facets of healthcare organiza- tions, such as business continuity, human resources and finance. This article will briefly explore how industry trends, new legislation and emerging technologies are shaping healthcare security in 2014. Industry trends Affordable Care Act: With the recent implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), there is a pervasive feeling of uncertainty regarding the short term effects on the industr y. Hospitals will guard their budgets cautiously, and secu- rity—traditionally viewed as a cost cen- ter—will feel the pinch. Security directors will be expected to do more with less and will be required to present business cases, citing in-depth, needs-based analysis to obtain funding. Certain hospitals might even see personnel reductions, which will further strain their security departments and lead to guard outsourcing. Tighter budgets have long been an anticipated side effect of the ACA. The industry as a whole has been used to deal- ing with decreased funding since the 2008 recession. According to R ay Osborne, CHPA, director of security services at UC San Diego Medical Center, "As with most industries over the past several years, the sluggish economy created budgetary shortfalls in overall healthcare security. While our industry has adapted well to these existing fiscal challenges, the [ACA] is expected to impact healthcare security 18 SECURITY TECHNOLOGY EXECUTIVE • February/March 2014 T Healthcare Security Trends for 2014 Run the Gamut COVER STORY: HEALTHCARE SECURITY By James Barbour New federal regulations and emerging technologies shape the future of healthcare security STE_18-21_0314 Barbour CoverStory HlthCare.indd 18 3/14/14 11:11 AM