October 15, 2008
Certain areas of the hospital will be accessible only by employees with "proxy cards," an ID used to open doors electronically.
Proximity cards provide more secure access
Safety and Security Management are launching a new proximity, or proxy, card system for Bethel's hospital and west wing this month.
The transition to the proxy cards developed out of Joint Commission requirements for securing pharmaceuticals, pediatric patients, and overall monitoring standards. YKHC began designs in the spring of 2006 after receiving Maintenance and Improvement Resource Allocation Committee funds through the Indian Health Service. Installation of the proxy card readers began in early August 2008.
"This has been an ongoing project involving several departments in an effort to enhance the safety and security of our patients, visitors and staff," said Jeffrey Conner, Director of Safety and Security. "Through this new system we will be better equipped to manage access and overall security of the hospital."
To open a secure door with a proxy card, an employee must simply swipe his or her new ID badge over the card reader next to the door and wait for the light to change from red to green. Because each proxy card recognizes individual employees, a database logs which employee gains entry, or is denied entry, to each door protected with the proxy card technology. The time of entry is also logged and a security camera monitors who enters and leaves secure doors.
Proxy cards also serve as an employee's ID badge, which is issued by Human Resources. New employee proxy cards will be activated when managers complete the Proximity Card Access Form and it is received by Security. If a card is lost or stolen, employees are instructed to immediately report it to the Security desk at the hospital to have their card deactivated.
"I'm very pleased that YKHC meets all of the safety and security requirements at the hospital," said Greg McIntyre, VP of Support Services.
