Convergint has partnered with HID to advance healthcare security by addressing the pressing challenges in protecting facilities, staff, and sensitive patient data. Through a shared commitment to comprehensive, layered security, Convergint and HID provide healthcare providers with insights and solutions that address their dual focus on physical and cyber protections.

Growing Threats and the Need for Robust Security

In recent years, healthcare facilities have faced a surge in security risk. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research, healthcare workers are now five times more likely to sustain a workplace violence injury than those in other professions.  Furthermore, in the first eight months of 2024 alone, 428 data breaches were reported, affecting over 53 million individuals and highlighting the urgency for stronger cybersecurity measures. The escalation of ransomware incidents and unauthorized access to patient data underscores the critical need for comprehensive security frameworks. The frequency and impact of all threats emphasize the importance of integrated strategies that leverage both digital and physical safeguards.

Key Insights on the Future of Healthcare Security

  • AI and Automation for Proactive Threat Detection

    With cyber threats on the rise, healthcare providers are turning to advanced technologies like AI and automation to enhance response times. In a survey conducted by HID in early 2024, over half of the facilities reported that they anticipate an increased reliance on AI in their security systems to help teams detect and respond to risks more swiftly. This approach is intended to support both responsiveness and resilience, essential in today’s complex healthcare landscape.

  • Integration of Physical and Cybersecurity for Unified Protection

    A significant 67% of healthcare leaders emphasize the importance of integrating physical and cybersecurity systems. Unified security supports seamless operations across both environments, providing an added layer of protection for sensitive spaces and critical data.

  • Adoption of Advanced Biometric Solutions

    Advanced biometric technologies—including fingerprint and facial recognition—are increasingly considered for identity verification and access control. These solutions offer healthcare providers a high level of security while supporting efficient workflows, particularly in complex healthcare settings. Biometric access is also highly resistant to duplication, enhancing the protection of restricted areas and patient information.

  • Digital ID from Birth for Streamlined Care

    The innovative “Digital ID from Birth” concept aims to create secure, lifelong identity management from birth. While still emerging, this approach could reduce identity-related inefficiencies and support continuity of care by providing a consistent digital identity throughout an individual’s healthcare journey.

  • Enhanced Cybersecurity and Data Protection Protocols

    Many healthcare providers are prioritizing enhancements in cybersecurity and data protection, particularly as patient data becomes increasingly vulnerable to external threats. Through cloud-based solutions and comprehensive staff training, healthcare facilities are working to establish a proactive approach to security while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Addressing Implementation Challenges

Although budget and logistical challenges remain, Convergint and HID emphasize the importance of investment in integrated, future-ready security systems. By adopting advanced technology and unified security strategies, healthcare providers can better protect patient information, secure their facilities, and support safe, resilient healthcare environments.

This partnership demonstrates Convergint and HID’s commitment to providing healthcare facilities with the tools and insights needed to navigate the rapidly evolving security landscape, promoting safety, trust, and an enhanced experience for patients and staff alike.

Learn more

Want more information on any of the technologies discussed in this article? Contact Convergint today and speak with an expert to learn more!

Effective security and safety is a multi-layered approach involving people, processes, and technologies. Convergint-provided products and services are only one part of this multi-layered approach, will not detect or prevent all threats or solve every risk, and should not be your sole method of security or safety. Please see the “IMPORTANT PRODUCT SAFETY AND SERVICE INFORMATION” documentation, available at convergint.com/terms, prior to using a Convergint-installed system.