LIMITATIONS

There were several limitations associated with the 2014 Crime Survey that are worth noting.  First, the survey sample is representative of hospitals affiliated with the International Association for Healthcare Security & Safety (IAHSS).  However, this is a good sample as IAHSS is the only organization solely dedicated to professionals involved in managing and directing security and safety programs in healthcare institutions and IAHSS members represent a significant number of the 5,000+ hospitals in the US and Canada.

The response rate to this survey, while higher than years past, is still low.  A major marketing was undertaken to increase participation and as clearly reflected in the response rate, it was effective.  Third, we had concerns about the differences between crime definitions across states and provinces and ultimately between countries.  To alleviate this concern, we provided survey respondents with crime definitions from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (US) and the Canadian Criminal Code along with healthcare related examples.  Based on the quality of responses received, it appears that this mitigated the anticipated issue.  Finally, the results of the 2014 Crime Survey cannot be compared to prior IHSSF Crime Surveys because different hospitals responded year over year.  We have created the basis to mitigate this issue not only in the 2014 Crime Survey, but also in future surveys, by calculating a crime rate based on bed count and hospital size (square feet).

ABOUT IHSSF

The International Healthcare Security and Safety Foundation (IHSSF) was established to foster and promote the welfare of the public through educational and scientific research and development of healthcare security and safety body of knowledge.  IHSSF promotes and develops educational research into the maintenance and improvement of healthcare security and safety management as well as develops and conducts educational programs for the public.  For more information, please visit:  www.ihssf.org.

CRIME SURVEY COMMITTEE

Karim H. Vellani, CPP, CSC
Independent Security Consultant
Threat Analysis Group, LLC
(800) 805-1585
Lead Author

Steve Nibbelink, CHPA
Global Director of Healthcare Security
Schneider Electric
(717) 737-3631
IHSSF President

Dana M. Frentz, CHPA
Security Consultant
Risk Management Associates
(919) 972-1067

David J. Gibbs, CPP
Managing Director
Guidepost Solutions
(510) 390-3300