A key part of the Security Rule is the requirement to conduct a Risk Assessment — a process that helps identify where your organization might be vulnerable.

What’s a Risk Assessment?

It’s a systematic review of:

• Where ePHI is stored or transmitted

• Who has access to it

• What security measures are in place

• What could go wrong (risks)

Common Risk Areas:

• Weak passwords

• Unencrypted emails or backups

• Old devices that store PHI

• Untrained staff

• Shared login credentials

What Happens After the Assessment?

You create a Risk Management Plan to fix issues. This could include:

• Updating passwords

• Limiting user access

• Encrypting portable devices

• Offering refresher training to staff

Even a small practice is responsible for doing this annually (or sooner if a major change occurs). It’s not just a checkbox. It’s your roadmap to preventing HIPAA violations.