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What is HITRUST compliance?

Tshedimoso Makhene November 09, 2023

HIPAA Compliance

Health Information Trust Alliance (HITRUST) developed Common Security Framework (CSF) to help organizations manage information security and data privacy risks. The framework is designed to fortify your data security and regulatory adherence.

Advantages of HITRUST compliance

There are several benefits for healthcare providers in achieving and maintaining HITRUST compliance:

Enhanced data security: HITRUST compliance helps healthcare providers protect sensitive patient information through a structured approach to data security, reducing the risk of breaches and unauthorized access.
Regulatory alignment: HITRUST's framework aligns with multiple regulations, focusing on HIPAA. HITRUST helps healthcare providers meet these requirements effectively and efficiently.
Risk management: HITRUST helps identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with information systems and data, ensuring a proactive stance on security threats.
Better insurance terms: While not guaranteed, HITRUST compliance can lead to better insurance premiums. Insurers often view HITRUST-compliant organizations as low risk, which can translate into cost savings.
Continuous improvement: HITRUST compliance is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing commitment to data security and privacy. Healthcare providers must continually assess and improve their practices to maintain compliance.

How Can HITRUST Compliance Impact Your Healthcare Practice?

HITRUST compliance isn't just about ticking boxes on a checklist; it's a strategic approach that can positively impact your healthcare practice:

Legal and financial protection: Compliance with HITRUST can protect you from costly penalties and lawsuits for data breaches or non-compliance.
Competitive advantage: HITRUST compliance can set a healthcare organization apart, showcasing a commitment to data security and patient privacy, making it a preferred choice for patients and partners.

How to achieve HITRUST compliance

Understand the HITRUST framework: Healthcare organizations should familiarize themselves with the HITRUST Common Security Framework (CSF). The CSF outlines the controls and requirements you need to implement for compliance.
Assessment and gap analysis: Conduct an assessment and gap analysis to understand your organization's current state of security and privacy controls. This will help identify areas that require improvement to meet HITRUST requirements.
Scope definition: Clearly define the scope of your HITRUST compliance initiative. Determine which systems and processes will be covered by the compliance effort.
Create a HITRUST implementation plan: Develop a plan that outlines the steps, responsibilities, and timeline for achieving HITRUST compliance.
Risk assessment: Conduct a risk assessment to identify and prioritize the risks associated with your information systems and data.
Implement security and privacy controls: Begin implementing the security and privacy controls outlined in the HITRUST CSF. These controls cover access control, data protection, incident response, and risk management.
Documentation: Maintain documentation of all security and privacy measures, including policies, procedures, and evidence of compliance.
Third-party assessment: Engage an accredited HITRUST assessor or a third-party auditor to assess compliance with the HITRUST CSF. This assessment may result in HITRUST certification.
Corrective action: Address any identified deficiencies or gaps based on the assessment findings. This may involve implementing additional controls, improving existing practices, or providing evidence of compliance.
Continuous improvement: Establish processes for monitoring, auditing, and continually improving security and privacy practices.
Certification process: Work closely with your HITRUST assessor to complete the certification process. The assessor will provide a report, and if your organization meets the requirements, you will receive HITRUST certification.
Maintain compliance: After achieving HITRUST compliance or certification, it's essential to maintain compliance status. This includes regular assessments, audits, and updates to security and privacy practices as necessary.
Educate and train staff: Ensure that staff is well-informed and trained on the HITRUST requirements and the organization's security and privacy policies.