Tewksbury Hospital's aging building hinders safety, care

Key Points:

• State officials acknowledged shortcomings in communication and handling of security policy adjustments at Tewksbury Hospital, which faces challenges due to its patient population including untreated, court-involved individuals.
• Security improvements have led to a 16% decline in physical assaults and reduced unauthorized patient departures, with enhanced visitor screening detecting weapons and contraband.
• Controversy remains over security tactics, such as the use of pepper gel and the presence of armed officers on psychiatric floors, causing concern among staff about safety and escalation risks.
• The hospital’s aging Saunders Building, constructed in 1963, is a major obstacle to security and infrastructure upgrades, with replacement costs estimated at $11 million and specialized secure units costing millions more.
• Staffing shortages and outdated facilities limit safety improvements, though new training programs and potential use of defensive shields for security staff are being considered to better manage the increasing forensic patient population.