Subscribe to our newsletter for monthly IT insights delivered to your inbox.
Our Blog
Doctor’s desk with a clipboard and stethescope displaying “HIPAA Compliance” text, representing the importance of a HIPAA risk assessment.

HIPAA Risk Assessment:

The First Step Toward Compliance Without the Headache

A proper HIPAA risk assessment is the foundation of compliance—but for many business owners, it’s unclear where to start, what’s required, or how to stay up to date. That’s where the right guidance (and the right partner) can make all the difference.

Whether you’re a healthcare provider, medical billing firm, dental practice, or health tech startup, SkyTide’s HIPAA Compliance Solution turns complex compliance into a simple, powerful process that protects your business and your patients.

.


Who Needs a HIPAA Risk Assessment?

If your business handles electronic Protected Health Information (ePHI), you’re legally required to complete and update a HIPAA risk assessment regularly. This includes:

🏥 Clinics and small healthcare practices

🦷 Dental and orthodontic offices

💻 Healthcare tech startups (SaaS, app dev, etc.)

🧾 Medical billing and coding companies

🧪 Labs and diagnostics providers

🧘‍♂️ Mental health and wellness clinics

📊 Business Associates with access to ePHI

Even if you outsource your EHR or IT support, you’re still responsible for compliance.

.


Why It Matters Now More Than Ever

In 2024, HIPAA enforcement has hit a new level:

  • The Office for Civil Rights is doing random audits

  • New civil penalties for violations replace criminal ones

  • Breach notification rules have tightened

  • Updated privacy notices and BAA contract language are now required

Add to that the rise in phishing attacks, and it’s clear: a solid HIPAA risk assessment isn’t just about compliance—it’s about survival.

.


How SkyTide Helps You Get Compliant—and Stay There

SkyTide doesn’t just offer advice—we become your compliance partner with a battle-tested process that’s approachable and effective.

“The Big Three” Compliance Pillars:

  1. Annual HIPAA Risk Assessment & Review

  2. Annual Employee & Manager Training

  3. Plug-and-play Policies & Procedures Templates

Real Human Support:

  • Live HIPAA Consulting

  • Help Desk with 24-business-hour response

  • Work plan creation, documentation, and remediation support

You’re not handed a software login and left to figure it out. You get people who know HIPAA inside out, guiding you every step of the way.

.


What the Compliance Process Looks Like

SkyTide’s workflow breaks down a complex process into doable steps:

  1. Kickoff & Portal Setup

  2. Assign Security Officer (if needed)

  3. Complete HIPAA Risk Assessment

  4. Upload supporting documents

  5. Review findings with a consultant

  6. Remediate issues with a clear action plan

  7. Train employees, finalize documentation

  8. Schedule annual follow-up and retraining

Everything is mapped out. Everyone knows their role. Nothing falls through the cracks.

.


Business Outcomes That Matter

When you take your HIPAA risk assessment seriously, you unlock benefits beyond compliance:

  • Avoid costly fines and legal headaches

  • Pass audits with confidence

  • Win new contracts by proving compliance

  • Protect your brand and build trust with patients

One of our clients was selected for a random audit this year.
Thanks to their SkyTide compliance plan, they passed with zero findings.


Did You Know?

Healthcare breaches cost $10.93M on average (IBM, 2024)

88% of breaches involve employee error or negligence

Only 44% of small practices conduct a compliant risk assessment

.


FAQ: HIPAA Risk Assessment Basics

What if I’m not sure HIPAA applies to me?
If you handle or transmit ePHI in any form, it does.

How often do I need a HIPAA risk assessment?
At least annually, or after a major change in your operations or tech.

Can I do it myself?
You can try—but most businesses find it difficult to interpret requirements without expert help.

What makes SkyTide different?
Our MSP services provide personalized consulting, not just templated checklists or software dashboards. You get human help + proven tools.

.


Ready to Protect Your Business, Patients, and Peace of Mind?

Don’t wait until you’re under investigation or scrambling after a breach.
SkyTide’s HIPAA Compliance Solution gives you the structure, support, and security you need to stay compliant—and stay focused on what you do best.

👉 Book a Free Compliance Strategy Call
You focus on care—we’ll handle compliance

Related Articles
Workers loading=
Reduce Manufacturing Downtime
Manufacturing downtime hurts productivity and profits. Here are 5 IT strategies to keep your operations running and products moving....
employees whispering behind a colleague's back representing internal IT security threats and the risks of employee-triggered cyber incidents
Are You Protected Against Internal IT Security Threats?
Insider threats are real. Learn how to spot internal IT security risks and protect your business from within....
image of a business leader choosing a digital agent for business automation
Digital Agents: The Secret Weapon of Modern Business
Discover how digital agents can help your business save time, cut busywork, and boost productivity—without adding overhead....

Subscribe to our newsletter

for the latest technology trends.

Get in touch.

Simply complete this form to set up an introductory meeting.

Subscribe to our newsletter

for the latest technology trends.