Posted on August 20, 2019
Mary Free Bed Security Department awarded ‘Program of Distinction’ designation
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The security team responsible for maintaining a safe environment at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital has been recognized for its efforts by the International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety.
Mary Free Bed is the second hospital in Michigan to be named a Program of Distinction, an honor awarded by IAHSS to outstanding health care security departments nationwide. Eight other hospitals also earned the designation this year.
The Program of Distinction recognition demonstrates “our great commitment to ensure the safety and security of our patients, visitors and staff,” said Senez Rodriguez, manager of Mary Free Bed Security and Emergency Preparedness.
“We have a dedicated group of women and men who invested a significant amount of time and effort to achieve this designation,” Rodriguez said. “I’m very proud of our team.”
About 92 percent of the department’s 16 officers participated in a rigorous training program and passed a certification examination, exceeding the 70 percent required by the IAHSS. In addition, Rodriguez became a Certified Healthcare Protection Administrator.
“We find ourselves in a very challenging environment from a safety perspective, (and) it takes professionalism and dedication to be vigilant and prepared,” Rodriguez said.
The Program of Distinction designation is valid for two years, from June 2019 to June 2021.
