WHAT IS HITRUST CSF?
HITRUST Certification Leads the Way in Data Security
HITRUST is an independent non-profit that certifies organizations handling sensitive data. They developed the Common Security Framework (CSF) with healthcare and security experts to standardize HIPAA compliance and other data security regulations. The HITRUST CSF provides an actionable roadmap tailored to the unique needs of healthcare and related industries. The framework has become the industry’s most widely adopted security framework and the standard for compliance.
HITRUST combines requirements from ISO, NIST, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and COBIT into one comprehensive guideline. Because of this, other industries, such as financial services, retail, education, and government, are also adopting HITRUST to streamline security compliance.
Need to further your understanding of HITRUST? Utilize our HITRUST Assessment Glossary before getting started!
SOLUTION
How to Get HITRUST Certified
The I.S. Partners firm is authorized by the HITRUST Alliance, and we have a team of certified HITRUST assessors.
We make certification easy with expert guidance through every step – preparation, assessment, and certification. Our motto is “audits without anxiety,” and we live up to that. With 20 years of experience helping diverse organizations meet frameworks, our HITRUST experts are ready to guide you.
Book a free, 30-minute consultation with a HITRUST specialist.
BENEFITS
HITRUST CSF Is the Security Industry’s “Gold Standard”
The HITRUST Approach is a complete information risk and compliance program. It helps different organizations continuously improve their security as they evolve
WHAT’S INCLUDED
HITRUST Certification Program
- Establishment of the HITRUST common risk and compliance management framework.
- Risk Analysis and Management Program
- Gap Assessment and Self-Assessment
- Interim Assessment
- Continuous Monitoring Program
- A federally recognized Information Sharing and Analysis Organization (ISAO) and other supporting programs and initiatives.
HITRUST Risk Management Framework & Third-Party Assurance
The HITRUST Assurance Program supports covered entities and business associates. It provides a consolidated framework and guide to security best practices. A single assessment verifies compliance across standards, saving time.
HITRUST RightStart Program for Startups
The HITRUST RightStart Program guides new companies and startups seeking certification. It helps them navigate the process and implement risk management, security measures, and privacy policies. RightStart efficiently verifies compliance and earns trust.
PRICING
Optimum Price for the Gold Standard Results
HITRUST certification involves a substantial financial commitment, but many organizations find it valuable for showcasing robust security practices, fulfilling customer and regulatory requirements, and enhancing their competitive edge.
The price of HITRUST certification greatly depends on the complexity and size of the business.
HITRUST costs include the following:
Direct Costs
- Access to the HITRUST MyCSF portal and resources (annual fee)
- Overall third-party assessment and consultation
- Gap analysis
- Staff time and training expenses
Indirect Costs
- Employee time involved in engagement (e.g., for self-assessment)
- Recording and updating security data
- Initial configuration
- Developing corrective action plans
- Other services by the HITRUST Authorized External Assessor
TIMEFRAME & FREQUENCY
HITRUST CSF Certification Timeframe and Frequency
Timeframe
e1 and i1 Certifications (4-6 months average)
r2 Certification (9-12 months average)
The estimated timeframe to complete a HITRUST certification will depend on the certification type and the company’s complexity.
Frequency
e1 and i1 Certifications (Annual)
r2 (Biennial)
HITRUST r2 certification needs an Interim Assessment at one year to stay valid for two years. Organizations with HITRUST CSF v11 i1 certification can choose HITRUST i1 Rapid Recertification after one year, where an external assessor reviews a subset of requirement statements and controls within 90 days.
WHY CHOOSE US
Your Trusted HITRUST-Authorized External Assessors
I.S. Partners is an authorized external assessor with a proven track record of helping organizations achieve HITRUST CSF compliance.
Full U.S.-based team
Ensures a better understanding of the local business nuances and regulations.
No Outsourcing
Work with the same dedicated team throughout the entire process.
One-stop shop
Saves time and effort by offering all requisite services under one roof.
Nearly 20 years of experience
Gives you access to our deep industry insights and tried-and-tested methods.
Compatibility with your compliance software
Offers the flexibility to integrate with existing software like Drata, Vanta, or any other.
Software Included (FREE!)
Benefit from our proprietary software at no additional cost.
CERTIFICATION OPTIONS
Which HITRUST Assessment Is Right for You?
Assessment Type |
HITRUST Essentials (e1) |
HITRUST Implemented (i1) |
HITRUST Risk-Based (r2) |
Description | |||
Goal | Foundational Cybersecurity |
Leading Practices |
Expanded Practices |
Validated Assessment + Certification | Targeted Coverage | NIST IR 7621: Small Business Information Security Fundamentals | NIST SP 800-171, HIPAA Security Rule | NIST SP 800-53, HIPAA, FedRAMP, NIST CSF, AICPA TSC, PCI DSS, GDPR, and 37 others |
# of Control Requirements | 44 |
200 |
2000+ |
Advantages | |||
Flexible Control Selection | |||
High Degree of Assurance | |||
Low Effort Required | |||
Certification Valid for: | |||
1 Year | 1 Year | 2 Years |
I.S. Partners offers certification services for all types of HITRUST assessments.
PROCESS
Steps to HITRUST Assessment & Certification
We provide HITRUST readiness, certification, and improvement services for organizations and their business associates. This evaluates compliance with security standards and develops solutions to align with HITRUST. If you need HITRUST and SOC 2, we can streamline both to lower costs.
How to Get HITRUST Certified
Time to complete: Up to 2 months
Goal:
- Identify the key stakeholders
- Define the scope
- Select an authorized external assessor organization
Summary:
During the Readiness phase, reliable HITRUST certified practicioners, like those at I.S. Partners, will test security controls and compare the existing policies and procedures to HITRUST requirements and controls.
Time to complete: Up to 6 months
Goal:
- Gap analysis
- Develop a remediation plan
- Set a time for the Validated Assessment
Summary:
This phase gives the organization critical information and time to address any gaps identified during the readiness phase. Assessors analyze the organization’s controls, identify gaps, and develop solutions for remediation. This helps ensure certification success.
Time to complete: Up to 3 months
Goal:
- Complete the Validated Assessment using the MyCSF tool
- The assessor validates and audits the assessment
Summary:
At this point, assessors test control requirements, perform an on-site risk assessment, as well as penetration testing and vulnerability scans. Finally, a score is calculated for each control within the validated assessment scope.
Time to complete: 1 – 2 months
Goal:
- HITRUST will perform the required quality assurance procedures
- HITRUST will create a report and score the validated assessment
- HITRUST will issue a Letter of Certification
Summary:
When the validated assessment is complete, the assessment is sent to HITRUST for their quality assurance review and generation of the final report.
Achieving HITRUST CSF Certification is important because it builds credibility and visibility for an organization. It is clear proof of the effectiveness of its security protocols for consumers and other business entities. Additionally, HITRUST CSF certification streamlines the compliance process, decreasing the time and expense needed to verify compliance with numerous sets of regulations.
WHO WE SERVE
Your HITRUST Partner with Comprehensive Expertise and Industry Experience
I.S. Partners is recognized as a frontrunner in the compliance industry. Having worked for nearly three decades in the field, our experts have experience in applying complex frameworks to different company natures.
We can accommodate the needs of organizations in the healthcare industry or other organizations needing HITRUST certification.
Main companies requiring HITRUST
- Healthcare organizations (hospitals, clinics, health insurance providers)
- Health information exchanges (HIEs)
- Health IT vendors and service providers
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Medical device manufacturers
- Health data processors and aggregators
- Health-related research organizations
Other companies where HITRUST is applicable
- FinTech
- SaaS
- Retail and e-commerce sectors
- Energy and utilities
- Government contractors
- Education institutions
TESTIMONIALS
See why our clients are so loyal.
Maximize Security, Elevate Trust. Achieve HITRUST compliance with I.S. Partners.
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