A new law requiring armed law enforcement officers in North Carolina hospital emergency departments will take effect in October. The bipartisan law, part of House Bill 125, aims to enhance safety amid growing concerns about violence in healthcare settings. A recent poll by the American College of Emergency Physicians found that a high percentage of emergency physicians have been victims of violence, with reasons including inadequate punishment for attackers and lack of protective measures.
Healthcare providers, including major systems like UNC Health and ECU Health, are actively preparing to comply with the new requirements. UNC Health and ECU Health are working closely with law enforcement and healthcare teams to enhance security in their facilities. UNC Health stated that their top priority is the safety of healthcare workers and they are taking all necessary measures to protect them.
ECU Health has also taken proactive steps, including a comprehensive risk assessment and continued safety education for team members. They have invested in cutting-edge technology to reduce violence in their facilities. Hospitals are working to comply with the requirements of the new law, with support from the North Carolina Healthcare Association.
Hospitals that cannot immediately comply may request an extension and NCDHHS will oversee the compliance process. A report summarizing the findings from hospitals’ safety efforts and implementation of the law will be issued by December 1, 2025. Data collected will include the number of assaults requiring law enforcement involvement and incidents related to patient behavioral health and substance use resulting in violence.
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