DCH Further Expands Security Measures After Nurse Shot And Killed

TUSCALOOSA, AL — DCH Health System on Thursday announced additional security enhancements across its facilities as the hospital system continues to respond to concerns raised after the fatal shooting of a nurse in one of its employee parking lots.

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As Patch previously reported, 27-year-old nurse, wife and mother Ada Doss was shot and killed during an attempted robbery on May 12 in what investigators have described as a random act of violence.

In the wake of the tragedy, the hospital system has been working to bolster security in an effort to promote safety and the peace of mind of its employees.

ALSO READ: DCH Releases Detailed Timeline Of Events Leading Up To Fatal Shooting Of Ada Doss

In an update released Thursday, DCH officials outlined several new measures designed to improve safety for caregivers, patients and visitors.

DCH says it has installed signage on light poles throughout its parking areas on the Tuscaloosa campus that display contact information for its 24-hour security team.

DCH is also distributing "badge buddies" to caregivers that include security contact information specific to each facility.

Among the most visible additions are new Blue Emergency Boxes in the Laundry Lot and South Lot that connect directly to security personnel.

DCH says the devices are being regularly tested and evaluated for effectiveness.

The health system also announced the placement of a Mobile Camera Unit in its Laundry Lot, which is made possible through a partnership with the University of Alabama.

Additionally, security personnel have increased their visibility by wearing yellow safety vests and conducting regular patrols in clearly marked vehicles. DCH said those efforts are supplemented by off-duty police officers contracted to monitor hospital properties.

ALSO READ: Court Docs Detail Behavior, Mental State Of Man Who Killed DCH Nurse

DCH says security escorts also remain available around the clock for employees and visitors. Escorts can be requested by calling security directly or by asking any member of the hospital staff.

In the immediate aftermath of the fatal shooting in May, Patch reported when DCH initially announced it had expanded overnight security staffing, increased police presence on campus, extended shuttle and escort services, and reviewed safety protocols across its facilities.

"The safety and well-being of our caregivers, patients, visitors, and community remain our highest priorities," DCH said in a statement. "We will continue to listen, evaluate, and act."

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