The key things needed to get you started with HIPAA.

In this article, we outline the key things needed to get you started, as well as how AssuranceLab can help you on this journey. If you're still unsure on some of the terms and definitions within HIPPA, check out our covering the key items.

HIPAA Compliance
Becoming HIPAA compliant involves implementing processes, policies and technologies that ensure the protection of Protected Health Information (PHI). Compliance is required for any organisation or individual who handles PHI, such as healthcare providers, insurers, and their business associates. Here is a sample overview of some of the key steps needed to get started:

• Identify whether your organization is a Covered Entity (e.g., healthcare provider, health plan) or a Business Associate (e.g., a vendor or service provider handling PHI on behalf of a covered entity). Our article here outlines these terms in more detail.
• Determine the types of data that qualify as Protected Health Information (PHI) under HIPAA, including names, Social Security numbers, health records, medical treatments and payment information.

Conduct a HIPAA Risk Assessment

• Perform a thorough risk assessment to identify where PHI is stored, processed and transmitted.
• Assess the risks to PHI, including potential threats to the confidentiality, integrity and availability of the data.
• Document vulnerabilities, potential impacts and risk mitigation strategies.

Develop and Implement Policies and Procedures

• Create detailed HIPAA-compliant policies and procedures that align with the Privacy, Security and Breach Notification Rules.
• Develop an incident response plan that outlines how to respond to data breaches, including notification protocols.
• Establish guidelines for record retention and the secure destruction of PHI when it is no longer needed.

Train Employees on HIPAA Compliance

• Conduct HIPAA training for all employees, especially those who handle PHI. This training should cover:
  • HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules.
  • How to properly handle PHI.
  • How to respond to a data breach or security incident.
• Conduct refresher training sessions periodically to keep employees informed of any policy updates.

HIPAA Audit and Monitoring with AssuranceLab
Although there is no official "HIPAA certification", it is highly valuable to have your HIPAA compliance audited to provide an audit opinion over the design and operating effectiveness of these controls. 

This is where AssuranceLab can help. We offer an agile, bespoke auditing option to fit the needs of your organization. We do this by working alongside you, no matter your stage of business to avoid the traditional large and disruptive audits. 

Get in touch with our experts today and let us guide you through the process of achieving HIPAA compliance for your organization.