Require HCA Healthcare in West Florida Division to provide 24/7 ER security
The Issue
As a concerned advocate for the incredible nurses, physicians, paramedics, technicians, registration staff, patients, and families who rely on a safe environment at HCA freestanding emergency departments in the West Florida Division, I am alarmed by the impending changes to security coverage that are set to commence on September 14, 2026. This reduction in security, which will leave freestanding ERs without dedicated on-site security for approximately 12 hours each day, poses a significant risk to both healthcare workers and the patients under their care.
Emergency departments are inherently high-risk settings, with increased potential for volatile situations, including violence or verbal disputes. The peace of mind and protection provided by trained security personnel are imperative to maintaining a safe and effective healing environment. Without constant security, healthcare workers may find themselves in unsafe conditions, jeopardizing not only their personal safety but also their ability to deliver optimal medical care.
Available statistics and studies underline the importance of comprehensive security measures in healthcare settings. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), more assaults occur in healthcare and social service industries than in any other sector, underscoring the necessity of constant vigilance and protection. The presence of security personnel serves not only as a physical deterrent to potential threats but also as critical support when emergencies arise.
By cutting back on security hours, HCA Healthcare risks incidents that could have severe consequences for the health and well-being of both staff and patients. This decision could also lead to lower job satisfaction and increased turnover among healthcare workers who already operate under significant stress and pressure. A robust security presence is a basic necessity, ensuring that employees feel valued, protected, and focused solely on patient care.
I urge HCA Healthcare in the West Florida Division to reconsider this decision and maintain 24/7 dedicated on-site security at all freestanding emergency departments. Making security a priority not only enhances the safety of everyone involved but also reinforces HCA Healthcare's commitment to delivering exceptional care in a secure environment.
Please support this vital cause by signing the petition to keep our ERs safe around the clock.
464
The Issue
As a concerned advocate for the incredible nurses, physicians, paramedics, technicians, registration staff, patients, and families who rely on a safe environment at HCA freestanding emergency departments in the West Florida Division, I am alarmed by the impending changes to security coverage that are set to commence on September 14, 2026. This reduction in security, which will leave freestanding ERs without dedicated on-site security for approximately 12 hours each day, poses a significant risk to both healthcare workers and the patients under their care.
Emergency departments are inherently high-risk settings, with increased potential for volatile situations, including violence or verbal disputes. The peace of mind and protection provided by trained security personnel are imperative to maintaining a safe and effective healing environment. Without constant security, healthcare workers may find themselves in unsafe conditions, jeopardizing not only their personal safety but also their ability to deliver optimal medical care.
Available statistics and studies underline the importance of comprehensive security measures in healthcare settings. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), more assaults occur in healthcare and social service industries than in any other sector, underscoring the necessity of constant vigilance and protection. The presence of security personnel serves not only as a physical deterrent to potential threats but also as critical support when emergencies arise.
By cutting back on security hours, HCA Healthcare risks incidents that could have severe consequences for the health and well-being of both staff and patients. This decision could also lead to lower job satisfaction and increased turnover among healthcare workers who already operate under significant stress and pressure. A robust security presence is a basic necessity, ensuring that employees feel valued, protected, and focused solely on patient care.
I urge HCA Healthcare in the West Florida Division to reconsider this decision and maintain 24/7 dedicated on-site security at all freestanding emergency departments. Making security a priority not only enhances the safety of everyone involved but also reinforces HCA Healthcare's commitment to delivering exceptional care in a secure environment.
Please support this vital cause by signing the petition to keep our ERs safe around the clock.
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Petition created on September 5, 2026