Police Officer Now on Duty in Emergency Department To Increase Patient Safety

The heightened security comes after a three-year research process that included an internal study examining police officer presence and its effect on hospital incidents. The results showed Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, which has had police officers on duty for several years, reported less incidents than Utah Valley Hospital, proving a direct correlation to a decreased risk of dangerous incidents when law enforcement officers are present.

“By having a law enforcement presence in the hospital, we will have a quicker response to any possible threats,” explained Brian Andreason, Intermountain’s Director of Safety and Security in Utah County.

Law enforcement will be provided by the Provo City Police Department. An armed officer will patrol the Emergency Department every day and will provide additional relief to the hospital’s Security team. Utah Valley welcomes this change, as it will allow for a stronger security presence throughout the day.

“This helps us maintain a safe environment throughout the whole day,” says Andreason.

In addition to a decrease in hospital incidents, Utah Valley also anticipates that the initiative will strengthen their relationship with the Provo City Police Department.