Do's and don'ts for office security: How secure is your practice?

Fall is a good time to perform a safety inspection for your office. If you've been in the same location for a while, you might believe that there's no need for such a check. But things are always changing inside and outside your office. You want to make sure your facility is in the best shape for patients, staff, visitors, and yourself.

Perform a safety inspection. Are all the exits well-marked? Is your office equipped with a fire extinguisher? How about a medical "crash cart," including an automated external defibrillator (AED)? Do you have plans in place for a medical emergency, fire, and violent incident? Does the handbook cover such exigencies? No one wants to think a negative event could occur, but it's always best to be prepared.

Don't forget outside the practice. Check the parking lot, walkways, windows, and entrances. Make sure the grounds are well-lit. Cut back any overgrown bushes and shrubbery. If you're in an office building, evaluate the lobby, elevators, and hallways. You want to make sure your patients have a safe, positive, and pleasant experience before, during, and after their visit to your practice.