Law Enforcement and ICE Resources for IAHSS Members

IAHSS Guideline

Healthcare Facilities are responsible for providing a safe and therapeutic environment while respecting the rights and privacy of those entrusted to their care. The IAHSS guideline is intended to assist healthcare security and administrators in fulfilling their obligation to provide a safe, secure and welcoming environment, while carrying out the mission of their organizations.

Launched in 2017, and revised in 2023 the industry guideline is titled, "01.10 Collaborating with Law Enforcement." The guideline provides guidance on establishing policies for collaboration with law enforcement, which includes U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) a federal law enforcement agency. ICE is part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

IAHSS Members can view 01.10 Collaborating with Law Enforcement for free here.

Non-members have access to the Guidelines here.

IAHSS Annual Conference Education Session

At the 2024 IAHSS Annual Conference, a session titled “Cop Talk – Real Talk for Balancing Patient Rights and Staff Safety with Law Enforcement Interactions” was presented and is available on demand for members here.

Presenters: Edward Fabi and Dean Sobcoviak.

Session Description: National Headlines such as the University of Utah Staff Nurse arrest, utilization of body cameras by law enforcement, interactions with ICE, and mandated law enforcement medical searches have created a difficult tension for health care facilities caught between assisting official investigations, preventing Workplace Violence, and protecting patient rights. This session will elevate awareness of the balancing act between medical, public safety, and privacy concerns performed daily by hospital security staff. 

AHA

On Jan. 29, 2025, the American Hospital Association (AHA) released a memo to its members, to help hospitals and health systems understand the implications of the rescinding of the 2021 Guidelines for Enforcement Actions in or Near Protected Areas memorandum. The AHA shared a memo from its outside immigration counsel. The memo, which includes several attachments, contains details on the new enforcement policy and considerations for hospitals and health systems.  Please reach out to your hospital administration.