Why IP Network Surveillance Is Critical to Healthcare Security
Ensuring the safety and security of patients and employees is critical to healthcare organizations of all sizes. For larger facilities, such as a hospital campus, the task can seem monumental – leading many in the industry to turn to solutions partners to develop a migration strategy from analog or hybrid systems to deploying complete IP network surveillance technology systems to ensure their security infrastructure is up to the task.
An increased shift to HD network video products is also contributing to significant growth within the security industry. According to IHS Research, the total market for video surveillance equipment in the Americas is estimated to grow to $5.7 billion in 2015.
For the healthcare industry, the move to high-definition IP surveillance systems allows hospitals to leverage the power of the facility’s existing IT network to correlate information from traditionally separate subsystems, such as video surveillance and analytics. Many hospitals already have installed robust network infrastructures in recent years, which make them well suited for IP-based video systems.
HD imaging
Megapixel IP cameras have a wider field of view than analog cameras and digital zoom features allow hospital staff to maintain a wide frame for complete coverage or zoom- in options to examine specific points of interest, that analog cannot capture. In addition, HD imaging delivers crystal clear HD images that capture minute details including facial features, tiny lettering and numbering. Such cameras can be positioned at hospital entrances, waiting rooms, and high-security areas to provide a watchful eye over patients, visitors and staff members.
Centralized and Remote Access Monitoring
Providing effective video surveillance over an entire hospital campus is a daunting task.
With IP-based surveillance systems, healthcare facilities can assemble a centralized command center that allows security staff to monitor live events from multiple cameras while simultaneously reviewing recorded footage from specific incidents. IP-enabled devices are able to transfer video data wirelessly, allowing authorized security officials to view video footage via mobile computers and wireless tablets, and providing video feed access of their facilities anywhere, anytime.
Video Analytics
Video analytics are yet another benefit offered by IP-based security solutions. With analytics software, an IP security system can be programmed to provide alerts to specific events in real time. Triggers can be set to notify personnel about potential threats or other concerns. By deploying these emerging technologies, hospitals gain the ability to proactively monitor campus activity and ensure that hospital policies are properly followed.
Patient Privacy
Patient privacy is a critical consideration for hospitals. Some of the latest IP-enabled cameras are even equipped with eyelids that allow healthcare staff to turn cameras on remotely in the event of an incident or emergency, while providing patient privacy. Ultimately, these benefits help hospital administrators ensure that their facilities are safe and secure while complying with state and federal privacy laws.
A hospital is like a city that never sleeps. The safety of patients, visitors and staff, as well as the protection of valuable assets, all require constant attention. With the proper video system, security staff can continuously monitor cameras overlooking entries to lobbies, corridors and emergency departments, as well as external areas like outpatient buildings and parking lots. With the help of advanced IP-based video surveillance solutions, hospitals today can gain the security and business insights they need to be safe while focusing on their mission of providing excellent care.
Interested in learning more about video surveillance systems for healthcare? Be sure to check out Panasonic’s IP-based healthcare security solutions.
