Evolving Safety in Healthcare: Risks, Realities and Responses

Topic - Workplace Violence PreventionhospitalsHealthcare

In our sixth podcast episode of Beyond the Threshold™, Jason Grellner, a seasoned law enforcement veteran turned healthcare security leader, shares his deep-rooted experience in addressing safety and security challenges in hospitals. With over two decades in narcotics enforcement before transitioning to healthcare, Jason brings a unique perspective to the evolving risks facing medical facilities. At Mercy, his responsibilities spanned pre- and post-pandemic environments, offering firsthand insight into how threats have changed, intensified, and impacted both medical staff and patient care environments.

Jason discusses the alarming rise in violence within healthcare facilities, pointing to recent national incidents as examples of a growing trend. He outlines the different types of violence, from physical altercations to armed intrusions, emphasizing how these threats put immense strain on frontline workers. He also explains how hospitals are responding—with layered strategies that include both proactive and reactive security measures—while balancing the need for a welcoming, healing environment.

The episode wraps with practical guidance for hospital security professionals. Jason identifies the top three areas of risk leaders should focus on immediately, suggests reliable sources for ongoing learning, and shares personal advice for those looking to grow their careers in healthcare security. His message encourages continuous improvement, vigilance, and a strong commitment to protecting those who care for others.

3 Key Takeaways:

  1. Violence in healthcare is on the rise, with hospitals facing more complex threats post-pandemic—from disruptive visitors to the increased presence of weapons in facilities.
  2. Security strategies must evolve to balance safety and openness, integrating technology, training, and awareness to effectively prevent and respond to incidents.
  3. Ongoing education and professional development are crucial for hospital security professionals—knowing where to get trustworthy threat information and continuously honing leadership skills can make all the difference.