Drugs, drug paraphernalia, and a set of brass knuckles have been confiscated by the weapons detection system at Windsor Regional Hospital’s emergency departments, according to CEO David Musyj. Since the system’s deployment on October 19, 2023, over 1,100 items have been identified, including 600 knives. Musyj expressed gratitude that no guns were detected and stated that the hospital may expand the technology to other parts of the facility.
In addition to discussing the weapons detection system, hospital officials provided an update on the backlog of appointments caused by a cyberattack last fall. The backlog for P3 patients, who require imaging within 10 days, is expected to be cleared within 10 weeks. However, P4 patients, who require less urgent care, may face longer wait times. The hospital’s systems were shut down and patient data compromised during the ransomware attack. The hospital staff were commended for their response to the situation.
Wastewater data collected by the University of Windsor’s Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research revealed an increase in influenza and COVID-19 cases in Windsor-Essex since the beginning of the year. However, cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) have declined since peaking in November. The hospital’s CEO hopes that the recent dip in COVID-19 cases signifies a downward trend. The chief of staff also noted an increase in bacterial infections, such as pneumonia, as the weather gets colder.
Overall, the weapons detection system at Windsor Regional Hospital has been successful in identifying prohibited items, including drugs, paraphernalia, and weapons. The hospital continues to address the appointment backlog caused by the cyberattack, and wastewater data indicates a rise in influenza and COVID-19 cases. The hospital staff’s resilience and commitment to patient care are evident despite the challenges they have faced.
