Community Health Network, a not-for-profit healthcare system with 200+ locations, sought to enhance security measures for multiple Indiana locations while continuing to promote an overall welcoming atmosphere for patients, staff, and visitors. In collaboration with Indiana based partner CK2 Technologies, Xtract One was able to integrate SmartGateway into decades-old buildings without compromising the visitor experience.

“When these hospitals were built 40 plus years ago, everything was all about convenience,” said Kevin Mahan, vice president of security and safety, Community Health Network. “I mean, not that you didn’t have horrific events that happened, but it really wasn’t at the forefront. I don’t think designers and architects really thought about people walking in with AR15s.”

Following a successful 30-day pilot program at Community Hospital East, Xtract One Technologies’ SmartGateway system was selected. SmartGateway leverages AI-powered sensors to detect threats without invading patrons’ sense of privacy and comfort, which means the thousands of patients and staff entering Community Health Network locations can confidently and unobtrusively enter the premises with their personal belongings left on-hand.

Improved Security: SmartGateway detected and alerted on weapons of all sizes during the pilot program, demonstrating its effectiveness in preventing weapons from entering the facilities.

Enhanced Patron Experience: The system provides a welcoming atmosphere, reducing intimidation and discomfort associated with traditional security measures.

Increased Caregiver Satisfaction: “The outcomes and comfort that our caregivers are experiencing have significantly increased demand to protect all entrances not currently protected,” said Mahan.

The integration of SmartGateway at Community Health Network has created a new paradigm for healthcare security — one that prioritizes both safety and experience. This innovative approach has not only improved security outcomes, but also subtly reframed the relationship between patients, staff, and the physical space itself. As we move forward in a world fraught with complexity and concerns for the risk presented by weapons, Community Health Network’s use of the SmartGateway model offers a compelling vision for how technology can be harnessed to create environments that are not only secure but also humane, and ultimately, life-affirming.

“I don’t have to sell the system,” said Mahan. “The ROI proves itself with the increased satisfaction from our 17,000 caregivers due to their feeling more safe at work. We feel pretty confident in saying that we’ve prevented 6,007 weapons out of nine entry points over a six and a half month period.”