As part of its commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for patients, visitors, and team members, Rome Health will implement the Evolve Express weapons detection system this summer and designate specific entrances for access to the facility.
This initiative comes at a time when healthcare organizations across the country are responding to a rise in workplace violence and security concerns within medical settings. Carrying weapons is not permitted on any Rome Health campus.
The introduction of this advanced technology will coincide with the highly anticipated opening of the new Main Entrance, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and the Kaplan Center for Surgical Services this summer.
The Evolve Express system will be placed at entrances open 24-hours a day, including the Main
Entrance on James Street and the Emergency Department Entrance. It detects potential threats without requiring individuals to stop, empty their pockets, or remove personal belongings.
“We are taking a significant step forward in safeguarding our healthcare environment,” said
AnneMarie Czyz, Ed.D., RN, President and Chief Executive Officer of Rome Health. “The
safety of our patients, staff, and community is our highest priority, and the implementation of
this system allows us to proactively protect everyone who comes through our doors without
compromising the warmth and efficiency of their experience.”
Capable of screening up to 4,000 people per hour, Evolve Express supports a steady flow of foot traffic, ensuring that hospital access remains convenient and uninterrupted. Powered by AI and sensor fusion technology, the system is safe for individuals with medical devices such as
pacemakers, insulin pumps, and other implants.
Rome Health will also expand its security team as part of this initiative, with personnel stationed at these entry points to monitor the system and respond quickly to any alerts.
Streamlined Access Points for Visitors and Patients:
As part of this initiative, patients and visitors will use designated entrances to enter the building to safely and easily get to their destination.
• Emergency Department Entrance – For emergency care services only. No public
access to Main Hospital from this entrance.
• Medical Center Entrance (Oak Street) – For office practice appointments at the Medical Center, including Primary Care, General Surgery, Bariatrics, Gastroenterology, Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. No public access to Main Hospital from this entrance.
• Pharmacy Entrance – For prescription pick-up. No public access to main hospital from
this entrance.
• Main Entrance (James Street) – Public access to the main hospital for all other
services, including inpatient, Residential Health Care Facility, cardiopulmonary services,
medical imaging, St. Joseph’s Cardiology, surgery, endoscopy and the sleep lab.. No
public access to Emergency Department from this entrance.
“These security enhancements reflect our broader vision to continuously enhance the quality of care and safety we offer,” Czyz added. “It's part of our long-term strategy to provide a secure, welcoming, healing environment for those we serve.”
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About Rome Health
Rome Health is a non-profit health care system based in Rome, N.Y., providing services to patients throughout Central New York. From primary and specialty care to long-term care, Rome Health delivers quality, compassionate medical care for every stage of life. We are a comprehensive health care system that connects you to the best clinicians and the latest technologies so they are easily accessible to you and your family. Rome Health is an affiliate of St. Joseph’s Health and an affiliated clinical site of New York Medical College.