There has never been a higher demand for security guards in healthcare facilities. For decades, every major hospital in the United States has had security on site to manage access control and assist staff as needed. What has changed in the last few years is the demand for security at smaller clinics and the need for large facilities to access additional guards when emergencies happen. In addition, cybersecurity threats and active shooter scenarios have prompted many decision-makers to add more guards with advanced training and certification.
We’ve put together this short read to inform folks in our network about the changing landscape of healthcare security. Decision-makers should ensure security solutions are scaled to meet the needs of your organization. Be sure to contact us when you need armed guards or fire watch to protect your hospital or care facility.
Changing Security Needs in Hospitals
Back in February 2025, a nurse in Palm Beach County, Florida, was tragically attacked by a patient. In response, the nurses’ union (SEIU 1199) petitioned for increased security measures, including armed guards, metal detectors, bag searches for all visitors, and employee panic buttons.
Regrettably, incidents like this are becoming more common nationwide, prompting management and employees to press for greater security measures. Proposed measures almost always include armed guards, a sign many fear for their physical safety in healthcare environments. Since most hospitals have unarmed guards on staff by default, the newfound push for armed protection represents a pressing need to scale up protection for folks on-site.
Cybersecurity Needs Physical Security
Just as physical safety is being threatened at higher rates, hospitals face snowballing cybersecurity threats. With so much proprietary and patient data on site, health care facilities are a tempting target for opportunistic cyber criminals.
Diligent decision-makers should consider posting guards near cybersecurity hotspots. This can help deter wrongdoing and prevent any kind of cybercrime that requires proximity to server rooms and the like.
Review Your Needs & Contact The Guard Alliance
Our experience has been that healthcare teams are often left to source security solutions under duress, like during an emergency or when other guards fail to perform their duties. We recommend that decision-makers be prepared to bring in 2-6 additional security guards during periods of heightened security risk.
Even if your needs are being met now, you may need to scale up in the future as your hospital or clinic expands. Ensure your security solutions provider is capable of scaling with you. As you prepare your security plan and risk management strategy, be sure to include a reliable source for unarmed guards and fire watch guards that can be at your location when needed.
The Guard Alliance has been proud to deploy security and fire watch experts across the United States since 2010. During that time, we worked with hundreds of healthcare teams to deliver reliable, scalable security solutions. Contact us when you need armed, unarmed, or vehicle patrol security guards to safeguard your location. We can provide same-day service in most major cities and help any team plan the best solutions to secure healthcare facilities today.
