Artificial intelligence (AI) is about to show up in more hospitals across Nova Scotia.
It means you will be screened for weapons by a new AI security system in up to 12 sites across the province.
It will be in emergency departments over the next six months from Cape Breton to Yarmouth, with the first few coming to QEII’s Halifax Infirmary and the Dartmouth General, December 13.
Nova Scotia Health says the pilot was successful at the Colchester East Hants Health Centre in Truro in the spring where more than 7,400 people were screened during the two-week period.
Roughly 49 potentially dangerous items were taken which had to be returned to vehicles before the individual could enter the hospital.
According to the health authority, the new system reduced the number of additional searches needed by about 25 per cent, speeding things up, with an “overwhelmingly” positive response from the public.
“This technology is helping us create a safer, more secure healthcare environment for everyone who walks through our doors,” says Dean Stienburg, director of security for NSH. “We’re proud to lead the way with this innovative approach and appreciate the support we’ve received from patients, staff and the public.”
The project was $7 million and funded by the Safety Innovation Fund, a collaboration between the province and Nova Scotia Council of Nursing Unions to address workplace safety and reduce violence in healthcare settings.
Chair of the nurses’ union Janet Hazelton says she is pleased by the success of the pilot.
“The safety and security of nurses, patients and others continues to be a high priority for the nurses’ union. Using proven technology to reduce the risk of harm and violence in our workplaces is a worthwhile investment,” says Hazelton.
The system will be installed at remaining sites beginning in January.
