PMC this week increased security in its emergency department waiting area and at its main entrance. Now, the hospital is considering installing metal detectors and enhanced protective equipment for its currently unarmed security officers, according to the report. Other potential security enhancements include additional restricted entry points, random bag checks, “enhanced security resources” at all Parrish healthcare sites, and other “enhanced detection devices … to identify prohibited items,” the report states, citing a “security reminders” memo Parrish officials distributed to staff.
The discussion of heightened security follows Sunday’s fatal shootings at PMC.
Authorities told CNN the 29-year-old suspect, David Owens of Titusville, entered a patient’s room at PMC and opened fire, killing an elderly female patient and a hospital employee in what appears to be a random attack. Two security guards restrained the shooter moments after he opened fire around 2 a.m. Sunday. The guards were not armed and held the suspect down until police arrived to take him into custody, according to CNN.
The victims are 88-year-old patient Cynthia Zingsheim and hospital employee Carrie Rouzer, who was sitting in Ms. Zingsheim’s room, according to an Associated Press report published by WWSB. As of Monday, Mr. Owens was being held without bond in the Brevard County Jail on two counts of first-degree premeditated murder. Mr. Owens is claiming mental illness.
The fatal shootings have also prompted other hospitals to look into security. Florida Today reports that Health First, which operates four hospitals in Brevard County, on Thursday began arming some of its security officers, and plans to implement other security changes.
Also, Wuesthoff Health System, which operates Florida hospitals in Melbourne and Rockledge, is looking into changing its security protocol, according to Florida Today.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.