HITRUST vs. SOC 2: Key Considerations for Achieving Compliance

Introduction

Compliance with industry standards is crucial for safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining customer trust. Two prominent frameworks often discussed in this context are HITRUST and SOC 2. The debate of HITRUST vs. SOC 2 is significant for organizations striving to meet regulatory requirements and demonstrate their commitment to data security. 

This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison between HITRUST and SOC 2, helping organizations determine which framework best suits their needs. We will cover:

• Overview: Definitions and core objectives of HITRUST and SOC 2.
• Key Differences: Comparison of scope, industry focus, certification processes, and complexity.
• Benefits: Advantages of each framework for different organizations.
• Decision Factors: Guidance on when to choose HITRUST versus SOC 2.
• Overlapping Areas: Common security controls and dual compliance scenarios.
• Compliance Steps: Practical steps for achieving compliance with either framework.

Let’s get started!

Understanding HITRUST and SOC 2

Overview of HITRUST

HITRUST (Health Information Trust Alliance) was established to address the specific needs of the healthcare industry. It provides a certifiable framework known as the HITRUST CSF (Common Security Framework), which integrates various healthcare regulations and standards, including HIPAA, ISO, NIST, and others. The HITRUST CSF is designed to be both comprehensive and flexible, enabling healthcare organizations to manage compliance requirements efficiently.

Key Features of HITRUST:

• Comprehensive Integration: Combines multiple regulations and standards into a single framework.
• Certifiable: Organizations can achieve HITRUST certification, demonstrating their compliance with stringent security requirements.
• Healthcare Focused: Tailored to meet the unique regulatory needs of the healthcare sector.

Overview of SOC 2

SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls 2) is a framework developed by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). It is designed for service organizations that manage customer data. SOC 2 reports are based on the five trust service criteria: Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy. Unlike HITRUST, SOC 2 is not industry-specific and can be applied to various sectors, making it a versatile compliance tool for many organizations.

Key Features of SOC 2:

• Trust Service Criteria: Focuses on five key data management and protection areas.
• Versatility: Applicable across various industries, including technology, finance, and more.
• Attestation: Organizations receive a SOC 2 attestation report from a CPA firm, which assures stakeholders about their data protection practices.

Core Principles and Objectives

HITRUST:

• Risk Management: Emphasizes a risk-based approach to data security and compliance.
• Standardization: Aims to standardize security practices across the healthcare industry.
• Assurance: Provides a high level of assurance to stakeholders through rigorous certification processes.

SOC 2:

• Data Protection: Ensures organizations implement controls to protect customer data based on trust service criteria.
• Flexibility: Allows organizations to customize controls to their business models and risk profiles.
• Transparency: Offers transparency to customers and stakeholders through detailed attestation reports.

HITRUST and SOC 2 are critical in helping organizations manage compliance and enhance their cybersecurity posture. Understanding each framework’s fundamental principles and objectives is essential for determining which one aligns best with your organization’s needs.

Key Differences Between HITRUST and SOC 2

When deciding between HITRUST and SOC 2 for your organization’s cybersecurity compliance needs, understanding the key differences between these frameworks is essential. HITRUST and SOC 2 cater to industries with distinct scopes, processes, and complexity levels. This section will delve into these differences, helping you grasp the unique attributes of each framework. By examining scope and applicability, industry focus, certification processes, and framework complexity, you will gain a clearer perspective on which framework best aligns with your organization’s requirements.

Scope and Applicability

• HITRUST:
  • Specifically designed for the healthcare industry.
  • Integrates multiple healthcare regulations and standards, including HIPAA, NIST, and ISO 27001.
  • Ideal for organizations handling protected health information (PHI).
• SOC 2:
  • Broadly applicable across various industries, including technology, finance, and professional services.
  • Based on the five trust service criteria: Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy.
  • Suitable for any service organization that manages customer data.

Industry Focus

• HITRUST:
  • Primarily targets healthcare organizations, ensuring they meet the stringent requirements of healthcare regulations.
  • Provides specific guidance and controls tailored to healthcare data security.
• SOC 2:
  • Not limited to any specific industry, making it versatile for different types of service organizations.
  • Focuses on establishing trust and transparency in data management practices.

Certification Process and Timeline

• HITRUST:
  • Involves a comprehensive and rigorous certification process.
  • Typically, it takes longer to achieve due to the detailed assessments and integration of multiple standards.
  • An authorized HITRUST assessor organization conducts certification.
• SOC 2:
  • Involves an audit conducted by a CPA firm to assess compliance with the trust service criteria.
  • The duration of the SOC 2 process varies depending on the organization’s preparedness and complexity.
  • Results in an attestation report that assures stakeholders.

Framework Complexity and Requirements

• HITRUST:
  • Combines various regulations into a cohesive framework, making it comprehensive but potentially complex.
  • Organizations must implement a wide range of security controls and practices specific to healthcare.
• SOC 2:
  • It focuses on specific criteria, offering more flexibility in implementing controls.
  • Organizations can tailor the controls to their specific risk profiles and business models, allowing for a customized approach.

Both HITRUST and SOC 2 offer valuable frameworks for achieving cybersecurity compliance. Still, their differences in scope, industry focus, certification processes, and complexity are crucial factors to consider when choosing the right framework for your organization. Understanding these distinctions will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your business needs and regulatory requirements.

Benefits of HITRUST

In this section, we will explore HITRUST’s key advantages, including its robust security controls, alignment with healthcare regulations, risk management focus, stakeholder assurance, industry recognition, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Comprehensive Security Controls

HITRUST provides a robust and thorough framework that integrates multiple security standards and regulations, such as HIPAA, ISO, NIST, and others. This comprehensive approach ensures that organizations address various security controls, making HITRUST one of the most rigorous compliance frameworks.

Alignment with Healthcare Regulations

HITRUST is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of the healthcare industry. It ensures compliance with healthcare regulations like HIPAA, crucial for organizations handling protected health information (PHI). This alignment helps healthcare organizations avoid regulatory penalties and enhance data protection measures.

Risk Management Focus

HITRUST emphasizes a risk-based approach to security, allowing organizations to identify, assess, and mitigate risks effectively. This proactive focus on risk management helps organizations prioritize their security efforts and allocate resources efficiently.

Stakeholder Assurance

Achieving HITRUST certification demonstrates a strong commitment to data security and regulatory compliance. This certification assures stakeholders, including patients, partners, and regulators, that the organization meets the highest data protection standards.

Industry Recognition

HITRUST certification is widely recognized within the healthcare industry. Organizations that achieve HITRUST certification can leverage this recognition to build client trust and differentiate themselves from competitors.

Continuous Improvement

HITRUST promotes continuous improvement by requiring organizations to update their security practices and undergo periodic assessments regularly. This commitment to ongoing enhancement ensures that organizations maintain high levels of security over time.

HITRUST offers significant benefits for healthcare organizations. It provides a comprehensive and industry-specific framework that addresses the unique challenges of protecting sensitive health information. By achieving HITRUST certification, organizations can enhance their security posture, comply with regulations, and build trust with stakeholders.

Benefits of SOC 2

SOC 2, developed by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), offers a versatile and flexible approach to cybersecurity compliance, making it suitable for a wide range of service organizations. In this section, we will explore the key benefits of SOC 2, highlighting its applicability across various industries, focus on trust service criteria, flexibility in implementation, enhancement of customer trust, and more.

Versatile Application

SOC 2 is designed to be applicable across various industries, including technology, finance, SaaS, and professional services. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for service organizations that manage customer data, regardless of their specific sector.

Focus on Trust Service Criteria

SOC 2 centers around five trust service criteria: Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy. This focus ensures that organizations address critical aspects of data management and protection, providing a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity.

Flexibility and Customization

One significant advantage of SOC 2 is its flexibility. Organizations can tailor the implementation of controls to fit their specific business models and risk profiles. This customization allows businesses to focus on the most relevant aspects of their operations while maintaining robust security practices.

Enhanced Customer Trust

Achieving SOC 2 attestation demonstrates a commitment to high data security standards and operational effectiveness. This assurance can significantly enhance trust and confidence among customers, partners, and stakeholders, making building and maintaining business relationships easier.

Regulatory and Market Advantage

A SOC 2 attestation can give your organization a competitive edge by showcasing its dedication to security and compliance. It can also help meet regulatory requirements and customer expectations, positioning your organization as a trustworthy partner.

SOC 2 offers substantial benefits for service organizations across various industries. Its versatile application, focus on essential trust service criteria, flexibility in implementation, and ability to enhance customer trust make it a valuable framework for achieving and maintaining high data security and operational integrity standards.

When to Choose HITRUST

HITRUST is the go-to compliance framework for organizations within the healthcare sector. Its comprehensive approach, integrating multiple healthcare regulations and standards, makes it particularly beneficial for entities handling protected health information (PHI). Here are some key considerations for when to choose HITRUST:

• Healthcare Organizations: Hospitals, insurance companies, and other healthcare providers will benefit significantly from HITRUST’s alignment with healthcare regulations like HIPAA.
• Regulatory Compliance: Organizations that need to demonstrate compliance with multiple healthcare-related standards can streamline their efforts through the HITRUST CSF.
• Risk Management: If your organization prioritizes a risk-based approach to security, HITRUST’s emphasis on risk management can help identify, assess, and mitigate risks effectively.
• Stakeholder Assurance: Achieving HITRUST certification can enhance trust with patients, partners, and regulators by demonstrating a strong commitment to data security.
• Comprehensive Security Needs: HITRUST will be particularly useful for organizations requiring a detailed and integrated security framework to address various regulatory requirements.

When to Choose SOC 2

SOC 2 is ideal for service organizations across various industries that manage customer data and must demonstrate their commitment to security and operational integrity. Here are some scenarios where SOC 2 is the preferred choice:

• Service Organizations: Technology companies, financial services firms, and other service providers can benefit from SOC 2’s broad applicability.
• Client Requirements: If your clients demand assurance that you meet high data protection standards, SOC 2 attestation can provide the necessary confidence.
• Versatile Compliance Needs: Organizations that operate in multiple sectors or serve a diverse client base will appreciate SOC 2’s flexibility and relevance across various industries.
• Focus on Specific Security Criteria: If your organization needs to address specific aspects of data security, such as availability or confidentiality, SOC 2’s trust service criteria provide targeted guidance.
• Customizable Controls: Businesses that require a tailored approach to implementing security controls based on their unique risk profiles and operational models will find SOC 2’s flexibility advantageous.

HITRUST and SOC 2 offer robust frameworks for achieving cybersecurity compliance, but their distinct focuses and benefits make them suitable for different organizations. Understanding when to choose HITRUST versus SOC 2 will help you align your compliance strategy with your specific industry needs and regulatory requirements.

Overlapping Areas and Complementary Use

While HITRUST and SOC 2 are designed with different primary focuses and industries in mind, there are several overlapping areas in their security controls and objectives. In some cases, organizations may find it beneficial to leverage both frameworks to achieve comprehensive compliance and robust data protection. Here’s how HITRUST and SOC 2 can complement each other:

Common Security Controls

HITRUST and SOC 2 emphasize the importance of strong security controls to protect sensitive information. Some of the common controls and practices include:

• Access Control: Both frameworks require stringent access control measures to ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data.
• Incident Response: Both emphasize the need for a robust incident response plan to quickly identify, manage, and mitigate security incidents.
• Risk Assessment: Regular risk assessments are crucial in both frameworks to identify potential vulnerabilities and implement appropriate safeguards.
• Security Policies and Procedures: Documented security policies and procedures are required to ensure consistent and effective security practices.

Dual Compliance Benefits

Organizations operating in the healthcare sector or those providing services to healthcare clients may benefit from achieving both HITRUST and SOC 2 compliance. Dual compliance can offer several advantages:

• Enhanced Trust and Assurance: Demonstrating compliance with both frameworks can provide higher assurance to clients, stakeholders, and regulators about the organization’s commitment to data security.
• Broader Market Reach: By meeting the HITRUST and SOC 2 requirements, organizations can appeal to a wider range of clients, including those in healthcare and other sectors.
• Comprehensive Security Posture: Leveraging the strengths of both frameworks can result in a more comprehensive and resilient security posture, addressing a wider array of potential threats and vulnerabilities.

Practical Implementation

To achieve dual compliance, organizations should:

• Conduct a Unified Gap Analysis: Assess the current state of security controls against HITRUST and SOC 2 requirements to identify common gaps and unique requirements.
• Develop Integrated Policies: Create security policies and procedures that address the requirements of both frameworks, ensuring that controls are comprehensive and cohesive.
• Streamline Audit Processes: Coordinate audits and assessments for both frameworks to reduce redundancy and optimize resource use.

Organizations can strategically leverage HITRUST and SOC 2 to enhance their security and compliance efforts by recognizing the overlapping areas and potential for complementary use. This approach not only strengthens data protection but also provides a competitive edge in the marketplace by demonstrating a robust commitment to cybersecurity across multiple standards.

Steps to Achieve Compliance

Achieving compliance with HITRUST or SOC 2 requires a systematic and well-planned approach. Here are the essential steps organizations should follow to navigate the compliance process successfully:

Initial Assessment and Gap Analysis

1. Understand the Framework Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the specific HITRUST and SOC 2 requirements to understand what is needed for compliance.
2. Conduct a Gap Analysis: Perform a thorough gap analysis to compare your current security controls and practices against the requirements of the chosen framework. Identify areas where your organization does not meet the standards.

Developing a Compliance Roadmap

3. Create a Detailed Plan: Develop a compliance roadmap outlining the steps to address identified gaps. This plan should include specific actions, timelines, and responsible parties.
4. Set Priorities: Prioritize the implementation of controls based on the level of risk and the criticality of the gaps identified during the analysis.

Implementing Necessary Controls and Processes

5. Allocate Resources: Ensure adequate resources, including budget, personnel, and technology, are allocated to implement the necessary controls and processes.
6. Develop Policies and Procedures: Create or update security policies and procedures to align with the framework’s requirements. Ensure that these documents are comprehensive and communicated to all relevant stakeholders.
7. Implement Technical Controls: Deploy technical controls such as encryption, access controls, and monitoring systems to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with the framework’s standards.
8. Conduct Training and Awareness Programs: Educate employees about the new policies, procedures, and controls. Regular training and awareness programs are crucial for maintaining compliance.

Preparing for Certification or Attestation

9. Internal Audit and Review: Conduct internal audits to assess the effectiveness of the implemented controls and processes. Please address any deficiencies or issues identified during these audits.
10. Engage with an Assessor or Auditor: For HITRUST, engage with an authorized HITRUST assessor organization to conduct the certification audit. For SOC 2, hire a CPA firm to perform the attestation audit.
11. Prepare Documentation: Gather and organize all necessary documentation and evidence for the audit, including policies, procedures, audit logs, and other relevant records.

Certification or Attestation

12. Undergo the Audit: Work closely with the assessor or auditor during the audit process. Provide the required documentation and evidence and facilitate their review of your controls and processes.
13. Address Audit Findings: If the audit identifies any deficiencies or areas for improvement, promptly address these issues and implement corrective actions.

Continuous Improvement

14. Monitor and Maintain Compliance: Regularly review and update your security controls and practices to ensure ongoing compliance. Conduct periodic internal audits and risk assessments to identify and address new risks or changes in requirements.
15. Stay Informed: Stay current with any changes to the HITRUST and SOC 2 frameworks. Ensure that your organization adapts to these changes to maintain compliance.

By following these steps, organizations can effectively achieve and maintain compliance with HITRUST or SOC 2. This structured approach not only helps in meeting regulatory requirements but also enhances the organization’s overall security posture, providing greater assurance to stakeholders and clients.

Conclusion

Choosing the right compliance framework is critical for any organization committed to protecting sensitive data and maintaining regulatory compliance. HITRUST and SOC 2 offer robust approaches to cybersecurity, but they cater to different needs and industries.

The HITRUST framework is particularly beneficial for healthcare organizations due to its comprehensive integration of multiple healthcare regulations and standards. It ensures compliance with HIPAA and other healthcare-specific requirements, making it an ideal choice for entities handling protected health information (PHI). HITRUST’s risk management focus and industry recognition further enhance its value for healthcare providers.

On the other hand, SOC 2 provides a versatile framework suitable for a wide range of service organizations across various industries. Its emphasis on the trust services criteria of Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy. It ensures that critical aspects of data management are addressed. SOC 2’s flexibility allows organizations to customize controls to their specific risk profiles and business models, making it a valuable tool for demonstrating commitment to high data protection and operational integrity standards.

Organizations operating in multiple sectors or with diverse client bases might benefit from leveraging HITRUST and SOC 2. The overlapping areas and complementary use of these frameworks can lead to a more comprehensive and resilient security posture, addressing a wider array of potential threats and vulnerabilities.

Ultimately, the decision between HITRUST and SOC 2 should be guided by your organization’s specific needs, industry requirements, and the type of data you handle. By understanding each framework’s unique benefits and requirements, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your strategic objectives and enhances your overall security posture.

Professional guidance is invaluable for organizations navigating the complexities of cybersecurity compliance. Engaging with experienced consultants like Bright Defense can streamline the process, ensure thorough preparation, and help achieve successful certification or attestation.

Bright Defense Delivers Continuous Compliance Solutions!

If you are ready to start your compliance journey, Bright Defense is here to help. Our monthly engagement model delivers a security program that meets frameworks including SOC 2, ISO 27001, NIST, HIPAA, PCI, HITRUST, and more. We leverage compliance automation to increase efficiency and lower the cost of compliance.

In addition, we offer vCISO services, penetration testing, vulnerability scanning, security awareness training, mobile device security, and more. Contact Bright Defense today to get started!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between HITRUST and SOC 2?

HITRUST vs. SOC 2: HITRUST is a comprehensive framework specifically designed for the healthcare industry, integrating multiple regulations such as HIPAA into a single, certifiable standard. SOC 2, on the other hand, is a versatile compliance framework applicable across various industries, focusing on five trust service criteria: Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy.

What is HITRUST certification?

HITRUST certification is a formal recognition that an organization’s security controls meet the rigorous requirements of the HITRUST Common Security Framework (CSF). Achieving this certification demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting sensitive information and adhering to healthcare regulations.

What is the HITRUST Common Security Framework?

The HITRUST Common Security Framework (CSF) is an integrated and comprehensive set of security controls designed to help organizations manage compliance with various regulations and standards. It harmonizes multiple requirements into a single framework, making it easier for healthcare organizations to achieve compliance.

What are the Trust Services Criteria in SOC 2?

The trust services criteria are the foundation of the SOC 2 framework. They include Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy. These criteria are used to evaluate and report on the effectiveness of an organization’s security controls and practices.

Why should an organization choose the HITRUST framework?

The HITRUST framework is particularly beneficial for healthcare organizations due to its alignment with healthcare-specific regulations like HIPAA. It offers a comprehensive approach to managing information security and compliance, ensuring that organizations can effectively protect sensitive health information.

What is a HITRUST report?

A HITRUST report is the result of a HITRUST assessment and certification process. It provides detailed information on an organization’s compliance with the HITRUST CSF, highlighting areas of strength and identifying any gaps that need to be addressed.

Who is the HITRUST Alliance?

The HITRUST Alliance is the organization responsible for developing and maintaining the HITRUST Common Security Framework (CSF). It aims to provide a standardized approach to information security and regulatory compliance, particularly within the healthcare industry.

How does HITRUST help improve an organization’s security program?

HITRUST helps improve an organization’s security program by providing a comprehensive and integrated framework that addresses various regulatory requirements. It emphasizes a risk-based approach to security, ensuring that organizations can effectively manage and mitigate risks to their information assets.

What are the applicable trust service criteria for my organization?

The applicable trust service criteria for your organization depend on the nature of your services and the type of data you handle. For example, if your organization processes and stores sensitive customer information, you may need to focus on criteria such as Security, Confidentiality, and Privacy.

How does HITRUST address information security?

HITRUST addresses information security by providing a detailed set of security controls and best practices within the HITRUST CSF. These controls are designed to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security threats.

Why is a compliance program important for data security?

A compliance program is essential for data security because it ensures that an organization adheres to relevant regulations and standards. By following a structured compliance program, organizations can implement effective security measures to protect sensitive information and reduce the risk of data breaches.

What security measures are included in the HITRUST Common Security Framework?

The common security framework provided by HITRUST includes a wide range of security measures, such as access controls, encryption, incident response, and risk management. These measures are designed to ensure comprehensive protection of sensitive information and compliance with regulatory requirements.

By understanding these key aspects of HITRUST and SOC 2, organizations can make informed decisions about their compliance and security strategies, ensuring robust protection for their data and systems.