In an industry where safety, compliance, and patient experience intersect daily, the role of healthcare security has never been more critical—or more complex. Few professionals have influenced this evolving landscape as profoundly as Tony York. With the release of the seventh edition of Hospital and Healthcare Security, York once again delivers a definitive resource that reflects the realities of modern healthcare environments while setting the benchmark for what effective security programs should look like moving forward.
With more than 30 years of executive experience in healthcare security, York has built a reputation as one of the most respected voices in the field. A past president of International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS), and a key contributor to its widely adopted guidelines, his influence extends across policies, procedures, and best practices implemented in leading healthcare facilities nationwide. His credentials—including CPP® and CHPA designations, as well as advanced degrees in business, safety, and criminal justice—underscore a career rooted in both academic rigor and real-world application. Currently, Tony York stands as the Executive Vice President for the Healthcare Division within PalAmerican Security and Paladin Security, overseeing all healthcare security operations in North America.
The seventh edition of Hospital and Healthcare Security arrives at a pivotal moment for the industry. Healthcare organizations are navigating a rapidly shifting environment shaped by increased workplace violence, evolving regulatory requirements, emerging technologies, and heightened expectations around data privacy and patient safety. York’s latest work addresses these challenges head-on, offering a comprehensive and practical framework for today’s security leaders.
What sets this edition apart is its balance between foundational principles and forward-thinking insights. Readers will find clear guidance on structuring and resourcing modern security programs, all grounded in the core pillars of people, processes, and technology. At the same time, the book introduces critical updates—including expanded coverage of patient-generated violence, enterprise security risk management, and advancements such as AI-enabled video surveillance and remote monitoring capabilities.
Designed with both accessibility and depth in mind, the book serves a wide audience—from hospital administrators seeking a high-level overview to seasoned security professionals responsible for complex operations. The inclusion of practical tools—such as sample RFPs, incident classification frameworks, key performance indicators, and reporting templates—transforms the book from a theoretical guide into a hands-on operational resource.
Notably, approximately 40% of the content in this edition is new or significantly updated, ensuring alignment with today’s most pressing healthcare security concerns. Topics such as security vulnerability assessments, system integration, and regulatory compliance are explored with clarity, enabling organizations to apply internationally recognized standards within their own unique environments.
York’s passion for advancing the profession is evident throughout the text. His work emphasizes not only the importance of security as a protective function, but also its growing role as a strategic partner in care delivery—supporting safer environments for patients, caregivers, and staff alike.
Widely regarded by healthcare executives, accrediting agencies, and industry associations as the standard of care for healthcare security programs, Hospital and Healthcare Security, Seventh Edition is more than just a book—it is a cornerstone resource for leadership in an increasingly complex field.
For those tasked with safeguarding healthcare environments, York’s latest edition is not just recommended—it is essential. You can purchase your own copy of Hospital & Healthcare Security HERE.