VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital increases safety measures with new weapons detection screening
As part of a phased approach, additional safety and security updates are being implemented throughout VCU Health System.
September 09, 2025
Starting Sept. 15, patients and visitors to VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital will go through weapons detection screenings at the main entrances of the hospital and C.A.R.E. Building. (Tom Kojcsich, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)
By Shea Wright
VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) is continuing its commitment to safety by expanding weapons detection screening at the main entrances of the hospital and the C.A.R.E. Building. Starting on Monday, Sept. 15, all patients, visitors and hospital staff entering these locations can expect to walk through the screening system upon arrival.
“Our goal is to provide a secure environment where patients receive excellent care, team members feel protected and visitors can focus on supporting their loved ones,” said Sheldon Barr, president of VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital. “These measures are an important step in strengthening safety for everyone who comes through our doors. We appreciate the understanding and support of our community as we make this transition that brings us in line with other VCU Health locations.”
This is part of a multi-phase implementation plan that began in October 2023, when CMH installed a weapons screening system at the emergency department’s visitor entrance.
CMH security staff will be available on site to share information and answer questions about these additional security measures. The new system is expected to cause minimal disruption, but the check-in process may take a few moments longer.
New weapons detection screenings are being implemented at the entrance of the C.A.R.E. Building on VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital’s campus in South Hill, Virginia. (Tom Kojcsich, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)
The screening systems are similar to what is seen at public venues, like sporting events. They are designed to detect weapons such as firearms and knives. Small items (keys and cell phones) do not need to be removed from your bags or pockets, however, larger items with significant metal content (laptop, iPads, etc.) will need to be placed aside before walking through.
Individuals will not be asked to remove any clothing from their bodies – manual wands will help to facilitate targeted scanning when/if needed.
Weapons screening began at other VCU Health locations in 2023 to address concerns about the rise in violence and aggression toward health care workers across the country, including at VCU Health. The screening technology has been effective in managing high volumes of people coming through health system buildings.
“We are committed to providing a safe work and care environment for everyone who walks through our doors,” said Tim Grosskopf, security operations manager at CMH. “Every patient, visitor and staff member has a role to play in helping keep our hospital safe.”
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