Xtract One Technologies Inc. has revealed a new collaboration with Sentara Health, which runs healthcare facilities in Virginia and North Carolina. According to the company, after the successful implementation of its SmartGateway entry screening at two hospitals, the partnership will be increased and weapons detection rolled out across 12 other Sentara hospitals.

The hospital project

Xtract One says that its SmartGateway unobtrusively detects hidden firearms, knives and other weapons as they enter buildings. The solution’s AI sensors scan for prohibited items without requiring the offloading of personal items.

“Our first promise to our patients, visitors and staff is safety,” said Sherwin Stewart, System Lead for the Xtract One pilot. “We selected Xtract One’s solution because it aligns with our goal to provide a safe and welcoming environment. We appreciate the flexibility of Xtract One’s solution to adapt to our operations rather than the other way around.”

SmartGateway

“Xtract One’s SmartGateway is an ideal solution for organizations like Sentara, whose priority is providing a positive experience and exceptional overall patient care,” said Peter Evans, Xtract One CEO.

“Sentara evaluated several solutions on the market and we are very happy to deliver the customizable solution they were seeking. Most compelling was our ability to align our system with their specific needs. Our philosophy and every aspect of the business is oriented toward delivering that brand experience for our customers.”

SJA insight

As Xtract One highlights, violence against healthcare workers in the US is increasing, with about 74% of workplace violence committed against healthcare workers.

Although steps can be taken to ensure the safety of healthcare workers while they are in hospitals or medical facilities, it can still be very difficult to detect weapons that are concealed. That is where AI can help, to reduce human error and to prevent those who may wish harm on others from entering the premises.