The Nova Scotia Ministry of Health is moving ahead with the phased rollout of an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered weapons detection system across the province after what it deemed a successful trial at the Colchester-East Hants Health Center (CEHHC) in Truro.
According to a news release, the system enhances safety for patients, visitors and healthcare providers while maintaining a comfortable environment in the emergency department.
More than 7,400 people were tested during the two-week pilot. Approximately 49 potentially dangerous items were seized and more people returned the items to their vehicles before entering the hospital, according to the release.
Examples of items detected include pocket knives and box cutters, NS Health told The Advocate.
The technology has demonstrated significant operational benefits, including reducing the number of secondary searches by approximately 25% and reducing screening time compared to traditional screening methods such as metal detectors. NS Health says the system’s ability to distinguish between everyday items and actual weapons will streamline entry and minimize delays.
“This technology is helping create a safer and more secure healthcare environment for everyone who walks through our doors,” Dean Stienberg, director of security for the Nova Scotia Health Authority, said in a release. “We are proud to lead the way with this innovative approach and are grateful for the support we have received from our patients, staff and the public.”
The Nova Scotia Health Authority plans to install AI-powered units in up to 12 facilities across the province, from Cape Breton to Yarmouth, in the coming months. These units will be prioritized at the entrance to emergency departments and the rollout is expected to be completed within the next six months. NS Health said further expansion beyond this stage will be considered based on continued evaluation.
The first new systems will be installed at QEII’s Halifax clinic and Dartmouth General Hospital starting December 13th. Installation at the remaining facilities will begin in January.
This pilot was supported through the $7 million Safety Innovation Fund, a joint initiative of the Province of Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia Council of Nursing Unions, aimed at addressing workplace safety concerns and reducing violence in health care settings.
Janet Hazelton, president of the Nova Scotia Council of Nursing Unions, said she was pleased with the success of the pilot and said the program will move forward in other regions of the province.
“The safety and security of nurses, patients and others remains a top priority for our nursing union,” said Hazelton, president of the Nova Scotia Nursing Union. “Using proven technology to reduce the risk of harm and violence in the workplace is a worthwhile investment. This initiative provides prevention without interfering with those providing or seeking care.”
