Additionally, Dougherty has implemented a Tier-2 training program that encourages officers to stay in shape and develop their job knowledge. The first tier involves physical fitness and the second involves the International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) basic training course. Officers who pass these two phases and have the requisite experience qualify for a promotion and wage increase. As of press time, 30 percent of Aultman’s security officers have participated in this program and many more have expressed interest.
This is no small feat considering Dougherty’s
department recently increased the number of its officers from 44 to 58 (not including volunteers). The training, however, was necessary because an officer is now stationed in the ER treatment area and psychiatric unit 24/7.
According to Dougherty, these round-the-clock patrols have proven to be invaluable. “We’re right on top of it when things go wrong,” he says. “We also have become closer to the nursing staff. They really appreciate us and learn about what we do. It’s been a win-win for everyone.”
Aultman Wants Employees Involved in Community
When asked how he manages his Aultman Hospital duties and city councilman commitments, Dougherty admits that he doesn’t really know. He does, however, attribute his success in both jobs to the encouragement he receives from the hospital.
“You do it because you love it, and you have the support of certain people,” he says. “What happens at this hospital is they encourage this type of stuff with their employees. They are happy I’m involved in the community.”
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The Dougherty File
Name: David Dougherty
Title: Director of Security Services, Parking and Valet
Campus: Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, is a Level II Trauma Center and a residency teaching hospital with 682 beds on 45 acres. It serves approximately 271,000 patients per year. More than 400,000 individuals visited the campus in 2009, which includes Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences. It is the county’s largest hospital and employer, and 5,000 staff work on campus.
Department: Fifty-eight non-sworn officers; seven of the former officers are now employed by the City of Canton Police Department. Eleven security officers are also employed throughout the area with local police departments. The department has six volunteers; two work in security and four work in valet.
