Enhancing Hospital Security: Franciscan Health's Partnership with Athena Security

In a significant move to bolster safety measures, Franciscan Health Olympia Fields in the South Suburbs of Chicago has teamed up with Athena Security, an industry leader in artificial intelligence (AI)-based security solutions. This partnership aims to implement a state-of-the-art weapons detection platform, designed to enhance protection for both patients and staff at the hospital.

Addressing a Critical Issue

Healthcare environments often face unique challenges regarding safety. According to industry reports, healthcare workers experience alarming rates of workplace violence, with nurses reportedly assaulted every half hour across the United States. Dr. Agnes Therady, Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Franciscan Alliance, acknowledged the grim reality, stating, "As a healthcare staff, we know all too well the violence that happens in our place of work." This reality has propelled Franciscan Health to seek advanced solutions to ensure the safety of its personnel and patients.

The Athena Security Solution

Athena Security brings its cutting-edge technology to the table, introducing a platform capable of detecting a range of weapon threats in real-time. The AI-driven system is designed to enhance traditional security measures, which often rely solely on human vigilance. As Raymond A. Martinez, Director of Public Safety and Security at Franciscan Health Olympia Fields, pointed out, traditional security officers may not be able to monitor all potential threats effectively.

"Athena Security's no-frills approach will immediately fortify our campus," Martinez stated, citing the heightened security that the system provides. With features that allow the detection of firearms, knives, tasers, and even the monitoring of visitor behavior, the security technology promises to transform the hospital's approach to safety.

The platform is designed to provide alerts while allowing benign items like cell phones and car keys to pass through without unnecessary detentions. This balance is crucial for maintaining a hospitable environment within the healthcare setting.

Future Expansion

Following the successful deployment at Olympia Fields, Franciscan Alliance is considering the introduction of Athena's security solutions across other hospital locations. Comprehensive risk assessments will guide the decision-making process, ensuring that the selected campuses are those that could benefit most from the enhanced security features. Martinez expressed enthusiasm for the broader implementation of the technology throughout the network, emphasizing the critical need for security in healthcare settings.

A Commitment to Safety

Athena Security, headquartered in Austin, Texas, has established itself as a key player in the security industry, pioneering innovations such as AI evasion detection and advanced visitor management systems. The CEO, Michael Green, stated, "We are pleased to ensure the safety of patients and staff at Franciscan Health Olympia Fields with our AI weapons detection platform." By continuously evolving and adapting to the needs of clients like Franciscan Health, Athena Security is setting a benchmark for hospital safety initiatives.

As the healthcare landscape grows increasingly complex, partnerships like that of Franciscan Health and Athena Security exemplify a proactive approach to patient and staff safety. Together, they are laying the groundwork for a safer environment, reducing the potential for workplace violence, and improving overall peace of mind in healthcare delivery.

For those looking to learn more about the innovative technology offered by Athena Security, further information can be found on their website. Together, these organizations are shaping the future of healthcare safety.