New security enhancements at three medical centers

  NewsEditor      Medical center updates

An update from Kim Post, EVP, chief operations officer, and Ashleigh Gerhardt, VP, network operations and emergency services

Last month, HonorHealth installed the Evolv Weapons Detection System for the Emergency Department and main entrance doors at our HonorHealth Deer Valley, John C. Lincoln and Scottsdale Osborn medical centers. As the device installations and calibrations are completed, there will be immediate 24/7 coverage for the Emergency Department entrances.

These new systems began operating on Monday, Jan. 15. Security will have department personnel staffing these areas during normal hours of operation at each of the entry points. Currently, the security team is working to hire additional team members to ensure there is department personnel in place to cover all the system locations on a round-the-clock basis. Security managers are working to accomplish this goal as soon as possible.

The following points share additional information related to the implementation of this new system:

  1. Enhancing security: The primary goal of installing the Evolv Weapons Detection System is to enhance security and ensure the safety of patients, team members and visitors.
  2. Advanced technology: This system utilizes advanced AI-driven sensors and algorithms to detect concealed weapons, providing a proactive approach to security.
  3. Non-invasive screening: Unlike traditional metal detectors, the Evolv system offers a more streamlined and non-invasive screening process, reducing potential discomfort or anxiety for individuals entering our medical centers.
  4. Efficiency and speed: This system can screen a large number of individuals quickly, ensuring minimal disruption to campus operations and maintaining a smooth flow of traffic.
  5. Privacy considerations: This system is designed with privacy in mind, focusing solely on detecting weapons, and does not capture personal data or images of individuals.
  6. Team member training: “Train the trainer” instructions have been provided to security leaders to ensure they are familiar with the system’s operation. They will provide training to our security officers, enabling them to assist visitors and patients, as needed.
  7. Deterrent effect: The visible presence of the Evolv Weapons Detection System can act as a deterrent, discouraging individuals from attempting to bring weapons into our medical centers.
  8. Continuous monitoring and updates: This system is equipped with features that allow for continuous monitoring and updates, ensuring it remains effective against evolving security threats.
  9. Controlled ingress points: Access points to each medical center are currently under review to ensure we are maximizing the effectiveness of the system.
  10. Additional deployments: The deployment of the system’s machines is planned in a two-phase approach. The first phase is this current installation, and the second will occur at HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea, Scottsdale Thompson Peak and Sonoran Crossing medical centers in Q1 of 2025.

This implementation of the Evolv Weapons Detection System will allow us to create a safer environment for everyone while maintaining a balance between security and convenience. This system is one phase of other planned security initiatives that will provide the safest possible environment for our team members, patients and visitors.

Please contact Darren Viner, director of security, with any questions or concerns regarding this security initiative.