University of Kentucky (UK) and UK HealthCare officials have decided to add additional security measures in its emergency departments and healthcare facilities in response to increasing reports of violence taking place across the nation in healthcare settings.

One of those measures includes UK Police using handheld metal detectors to “wand” all patients and visitors entering the emergency departments at UK Chandler Hospital and UK Good Samaritan Hospital beginning this week.

According to the organization, "This is an added measure to continue to provide a safe environment for patients, families and all who work and learn at the University of Kentucky."

In addition, security leaders are reminding staff, students and community members of protocols and procedures already in place, including reminding UK HealthCare providers and staff to use employee entrances rather than public emergency entrances to reduce congestion at the public entrances.

UK HealthCare intends to install fixed metal detectors at emergency department (ED) entrances in the future. This is the result of extensive, ongoing work that has been taking place to improve the safety and security of employees, patients and visitors at UK HealthCare facilities.