The UNC Health Lenoir Public Safety Department has received the International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) Certification. 

The International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) recognizes outstanding qualifying healthcare security departments by awarding the Program of Distinction. Hospitals and facilities qualify by achieving and maintaining a minimum level of certified officers, managers, and directors within their security department. To qualify, 70 percent of the security officers must hold a current Basic, Advanced or Supervisor certification, complete the course and pass the certification test. The director of the security department must also be a current Certified Healthcare Protection Administrator (CHPA). The IAHSS Program of Distinction is achieved by the healthcare security department, not the organization and is valid for two years.

As of 2023, the UNC Health Lenoir Public Safety Department is only one of three in North Carolina to be certified. Scotty Hill, Director of Public Safety stated “I am exceptionally proud of our team members who have worked so hard to obtain their IAHSS certifications. Their dedication to professional development enhances the department’s ability to provide exceptional services and supports UNC Health Lenoir’s culture of excellence. Achieving the IAHSS Program of Distinction designation reflects UNC Health Lenoir’s commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for our patients and their families and our staff.” 

IAHSS was formed in 1968 by a group of healthcare security visionaries seeking change in how healthcare facilities could better promote a safe and secure environment for the staff and patients. Since then, IAHSS has certified and supported thousands of dedicated professionals in keeping all healthcare workers, patients, and facilities safe and secure and is considered the foremost trusted authority in healthcare security and safety. IAHSS members have developed educational programs and created a body of knowledge that meets the needs of today's fast paced and ever changing environment.

About UNC Lenoir Health Care

UNC Lenoir, licensed for 199 beds, is a nonprofit organization serving the Lenoir County area with acute, outpatient, and community health services. The hospital has a 116 year history of providing excellent care to the community.  In addition to general medical, surgical, and obstetrical and gynecological care, UNC Lenoir offers specialized services including cardiology, pulmonology, oncology, radiology and urology. Surgical specialties include general, vascular, orthopedic and bariatric with a staff trained to take special care during recovery. UNC Lenoir affiliated with the UNC Health Care System in 2017. UNC Health is an integrated health care system based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina and is comprised of UNC Hospitals and its provider network, UNC Faculty Physicians and UNC Physicians Network.