Proposing A Key Performance Indicator For Security Response Time Within A Healthcare Facility

Abstract

INTRODUCTION The safety of patients and property in healthcare settings is directly influenced by security response time, yet this critical aspect is often overlooked. In this article, we aim to address this gap by presenting a proposed key performance indicator (KPI) for security response times. METHODS To develop the proposed KPI, we followed a systematic approach. First, we defined the necessary KPI. We then collected baseline response time data and met with stakeholders to gather their insights. Subsequently, we analysed the response time data from before and after implementation of the proposed KPI, and introduced a levelling method for responses that takes into account the intensity and risk level of each situation. RESULTS The weekly average baseline response time for situations requiring security department intervention was found to be 8 minutes and 1 second. One year after implementing the levelling method, the data comparison revealed a substantial decrease in response times. Specifically, responses to Level 1 incidents averaged 3 minutes and 57 seconds; Level 2 incidents averaged 5 minutes and 47 seconds; and Level 3 incidents averaged 3 minutes and 59 seconds. CONCLUSION The application and testing of this new KPI over the course of one year demonstrated a remarkable impact on security response time. Given the lack of a published benchmark for such response, we propose a benchmark of 5 minutes.