OCH Conducts Safety Fair for Staff and Patients

STARKVILLE, Miss. – Prioritizing safety for both staff and patients, the OCH Regional Medical Center presented its annual safety fair on July 31 and August 1, offering a plethora of valuable advice and guidance. Numerous topics were covered during this mandatory event, ranging from appropriate actions during an active shooter situation to tips on preventing phishing scams.

Expert Information from Various Departments

Various departments throughout the hospital autonomously established their own booths, creating a comprehensive safety network for all involved. Among those in attendance was the Starkville Fire Department, sharing their crucial expertise in relation to fire safety and emergency evacuation procedures.

Longtime safety professional at the hospital, Wes Andrews, emphasized the importance of awareness and attention among staff during the course of their daily operations. “The most critical thing we want our staff to walk away with from this fair is the consciousness of the need to secure our patients and each other,” Andrews pointed out.

Cybersecurity: A Growing Concern

Andrews further highlighted the often overlooked yet crucial issue of cybersecurity, especially in the healthcare sector. Hospitals are a treasure trove of both patients’ personal data and industry-specific information, making them a popular target for cybercriminals.

“We’ve identified cybersecurity as a significant concern within healthcare. We aim to safeguard our patients’ personal information as well as internal data. Therefore, we’re enhancing those security protocols throughout the hospital,” Andrews said, underscoring the growing concern over digital safety.

Staff members were especially cautioned against opening unknown emails – a common gateway used in phishing attacks. “We want our teams to be mindful. Don’t just click and open emails or any other digital content. Follow the process we have in place,” he added.

Importance of Safety Measures

Zaikeia Sykes, an admit/discharge clerk from the cardiology department, reiterated the importance of these safety measures. “It’s critical for patient safety. Many of the protocols we’ve discussed can actually prevent patients’ information from being stolen,” Sykes explained.

In 2023, a staggering 298,000+ people in the U.S. reported encountering a phishing scam. The sheer magnitude of the problem highlights the need for such safety fairs and education efforts, not just in the healthcare sector, but across all industries.

In conclusion, safety remains a shared responsibility for both healthcare professionals and patients. Events like the OCH Safety Fair go a long way in preparing everyone involved for potential threats and emergencies, contributing to a safer environment for all.