The Crucial Role Police Play in Health Care

A patient in critical condition arrives at a hospital shortly after a car crash. Before the trauma team even sees them, a police officer has already described the scene and what happened. These critical details allow care to begin faster and safer, resulting in a better outcome for the patient.  

This is just one example of how law enforcement offers crucial support to the medical field.  

“Keeping people safe, keeping people healthy: that’s our shared mission,” said Mike Mock, Security Manager at Aspirus St. Luke’s. “It’s really a win-win relationship we have with law enforcement.”  

Police officers regularly offer the support health care teams need to care for patients. Here are just a few examples:  

• Secure scenes so paramedics and staff can work safely  

• Share details that help trauma teams prepare for critical patients  

• De-escalate disruptive or unsafe behavior in clinics or hospitals  

• Partner on drug take-back programs, opioid response, and safety education  

• Coordinate with hospitals during severe weather, mass casualty events, and drills  

At Aspirus St. Luke’s, this collaboration is built into daily operations as it is at many Aspirus locations. “Our relationship is super strong,” said Mike. “There’s direct communication between patrol officers and our security team from shift to shift.”  

Sergeant Joel Hopps oversees the Duluth Police Department’s behavioral health team and works closely with Mike on a regular basis. The primary call they respond to is disruptive behavior. “We’re here to make sure that no one gets hurt,” said Sergeant Hopps.  

The work isn’t easy. Officers are often called into unpredictable situations where emotions run high, particularly in hospital settings. Still, many continue year after year to protect and support the communities they call home.  

“Being a police officer and being part of the community is part of who I am. It’s why I wanted to become a cop,” shared Sergeant Hopps. “Working with Aspirus is another way to support my community.”  

With January 9, marking National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, Mike shared a message of thanks. “From here in Duluth to across the country, thank you,” he said. “When law enforcement is engaged, present, and supportive, it makes a world of difference in health care.”