New York City Department of Health and Hospitals Police

New York City Department of Health and Hospitals Police (DHH Police) is a law enforcement agency within the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation (HHC), responsible for providing security and law enforcement services at HHC facilities, including hospitals, diagnostic and treatment centers, and administrative offices. The DHH Police play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of patients, staff, and visitors across the health system's various locations in New York City.

History

The origins of the DHH Police date back to the establishment of hospital police units tasked with safeguarding the city's public health institutions. Over the years, the scope of responsibilities and the authority of the DHH Police have evolved, reflecting changes in the city's approach to public health and hospital security.

Mission and Responsibilities

The primary mission of the DHH Police is to provide a safe and secure environment for all individuals within HHC facilities. This includes preventing and responding to criminal activities, enforcing state and local laws, and working closely with the New York City Police Department (NYPD) and other law enforcement agencies when necessary. The DHH Police are also involved in emergency management operations, including disaster response and recovery efforts.

Training and Authority

Officers of the DHH Police undergo rigorous training that is specific to the healthcare environment. This training includes, but is not limited to, emergency response, de-escalation techniques, and the handling of sensitive situations that may arise in a hospital setting. DHH Police officers have the authority to make arrests, issue summonses, and take other law enforcement actions within the jurisdiction of HHC facilities.

Organization

The DHH Police is structured under the umbrella of the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation. The agency is led by a Director of Security and Law Enforcement, who oversees the deployment of officers across the city's public health system. The organizational structure is designed to ensure that each facility has a dedicated security team capable of addressing its unique challenges.

Challenges

One of the primary challenges faced by the DHH Police is balancing the need for security with the open and accessible nature of public health facilities. Hospitals and health centers are environments where the welfare and privacy of patients must be protected, even as measures are taken to prevent and respond to criminal activities. Additionally, the DHH Police must be prepared to handle a wide range of incidents, from minor disturbances to major emergencies.

Community Relations

The DHH Police work closely with the communities they serve, aiming to build trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the public. Community outreach and engagement are key components of their strategy to ensure the safety of HHC facilities while respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals.

See Also

• New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation
• Law enforcement in New York City
• Hospital security