In an effort to continue providing a safe environment for visitors and employees, Franciscan Health has added the latest in thermal scanning technology to the COVID screening process at hospital entrances.
The kiosks, which resemble a tablet computer on a stand, allow visitors to place their face near the screen to get a temperature reading within a few seconds. They are also able to determine if the visitor is wearing a mask or not.
“We are thrilled to be able to offer the most cutting-edge temperature screening technology to those we’re privileged to work with and serve,” said Sean Leahy, administrative director of operations at Franciscan Health Dyer/Hammond/Munster. “They are accurate, efficient, and most importantly, the technology helps us deliver the safest possible environment for our patients, visitors, and coworkers.”
Hospital officials praised the ease of implementation for the new technology and how user-friendly it is. “On-screen instructions prompt the user, so the device requires little to no prompting from staff,” said Trish Weber, vice president of operations at Franciscan Health Michigan City.
Dawn Scott, chief nursing officer and vice president of patient care services at Franciscan Health Crown Point, said that both staff and visitors seem to really like the scanners that were implemented at 10 entrances on July 27. The very quick process allows more accurate and consistent temperature scanning, she added.
“The only current challenge that we are adjusting to is setting the correct height, so it is able to be used for most people,” Scott said.
Visitor restrictions continue to be enforced at Franciscan Health hospitals, where one adult visitor per day is allowed under specific circumstances. All visitors are required to wear a mask, practice social distancing and practice good hand hygiene.
