By Ken Bukowski/ Special to Healthcare Facilities Today

Healthcare facilities are diverse in terms of size, location, specialty, and myriad other factors, and their security needs differ from those of other industries. For these reasons, healthcare security programs can never be “one size fits all.” How do you choose a security provider that’s the perfect fit for your healthcare facility?

• Explore and engage before the RFP process – It is important for healthcare facilities to get to know vendors prior to issuing an RFP. Perhaps the most important factor in choosing a security provider is understanding their culture and seeing if it aligns with your own. Vetting providers early in the process can help you determine which ones should receive the RFP.

• Avoid making decisions based solely on a proposal – Choosing a vendor based only on factors included in a proposal is risky. The logistics may be on target but their approach also needs to fit in with your hospital setting. For example, a security provider whose approach is strictly military-style might be a great fit for a hospital in an urban setting, but what if your hospital is in a rural location and you’re looking for security officers with a more ambassador-like style? After proposals are submitted, schedule meetings with vendors to learn more about their approach, and find out if they can tailor a security program to meet your needs. 

• Network within your healthcare community – Build relationships with administrators and security directors from other hospitals in your community. Talk with them about their security program and provider and what they may or may not like. Sharing information and best practices is mutually beneficial and will provide honest feedback that is helpful to both parties. 

• Focus on industry expertise - The nuances of vertical market-specific security programs couldn’t be more different. A security officer patrolling a commercial high rise has markedly different duties than one in a healthcare facility. Choose a provider with proven expertise in the healthcare industry. 

In the end, it comes down to mutual respect and an understanding of each other’s culture.  Your security challenges are unique and require thoughtful, tailored solutions. Choose a provider that can develop a proactive security solution that fits seamlessly into your culture.

Bukowski is the vice president of healthcare, AlliedBarton Security Services.