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BBAHC Implements Security Improvements

Following a January 14, 2024 active shooter incident on the Kanakanak Hospital Campus, BBAHC hosted a team from HSS (https://hssus.com/) in Dillingham to conduct physical security assessments of Dillingham based business buildings, hospital and campus. Additionally, the team evaluated the security program, interviewed staff to discuss security concerns, and conducted six active shooter practical exercises at various locations throughout campus.  The assessment report from that visit has been received and BBAHC has been actively implementing improvements in these areas:

  • Improved daily communication between Nursing and Security to identify concerns, share information, and follow up on actions taken to address security needs;
  • New uniforms for Security personnel to help staff and the public more easily identify those making rounds and stationed in BBAHC facilities;
  • TEAM® (Techniques for Effective Aggression Management) Training scheduled every 3 days during the month of December to mitigate risk through a comprehensive aggression management training program offered across the organization;
  • Improved collaboration and facilities access by local law enforcement and emergency services to more effectively respond to campus incidents;
  • Expansion of workplace violence prevention signage to raise awareness of policies in place to keep staff, patients and visitors safe;
  • New communication equipment to facilitate timely response to issues at BBAHC facilities surrounding the Kanakanak Hospital.

BBAHC will continue to implement short-term recommendations and plan for long-term improvements identified in the HSS assessment report.  We will continue to update our staff and the public about efforts underway to ensure BBAHC facilities remain safe places to receive quality health care, now and into the future.

Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation manages Kanakanak Hospital, a critical access facility, which is Joint Commission accredited, receives Health and Human Services funding, and is covered through the Federal Tort Claim Act with respect to certain health or health-related claims, including liability for medical malpractice claims, for its officers, board members, employees, and certain health profession contractors and health profession volunteers. Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation is recognized by the US Government and State of Alaska as a tribal organization under PL 93-638.