Elevate Consulting

Cybersecurity Compliance

HITRUST

HITRUST Compliance Services:

Navigating the Complex Path to Certification with Confidence

In today’s complex regulatory landscape, organizations face increasing pressure to demonstrate robust cybersecurity and privacy controls. The HITRUST Common Security Framework (CSF) provides a comprehensive, certifiable standard that harmonizes multiple regulatory requirements, including HIPAA, ISO 27001, and NIST. Achieving HITRUST certification can be a challenging and resource-intensive process—but it’s one that sets your organization apart as a leader in protecting sensitive information.

Our team of experts is here to guide you through every step of the HITRUST journey, helping you navigate its complexities with precision and efficiency.

What is HITRUST, and Why Does It Matter?

The HITRUST CSF was designed to simplify compliance by integrating various security, privacy, and regulatory requirements into a single, scalable framework. This enables organizations to build trust with customers and regulators while managing cybersecurity risks effectively. HITRUST certification isn’t just about meeting minimum standards—it’s about demonstrating a commitment to excellence in data protection.

Levels of HITRUST Certification

HITRUST offers three levels of certification tailored to an organization’s size, complexity, and risk profile:

Designed for smaller organizations or those seeking foundational cybersecurity coverage. This level focuses on essential controls and is ideal for organizations with minimal risk exposure.

 A step up from e1, the i1 level incorporates additional requirements that emphasize essential security practices, making it suitable for organizations that require moderate assurance.

The most comprehensive and rigorous level, r2 certification evaluates advanced security and privacy controls. This level is ideal for larger organizations or those operating in high-risk industries such as healthcare or finance.

Whether you aim for e1, i1, or r2 certification, the HITRUST process requires careful planning, technical expertise, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

The HITRUST Assessment Process
Achieving HITRUST certification involves a structured process that ensures your organization meets the required controls for your chosen certification level. Here’s a closer look at the key steps:
Pre-Assessment Activities

The journey begins with pre-assessment activities, where we help define the scope of your assessment. This includes:

Completing webforms with details such as organizational information, scope, assessment options, and scoring profiles.

Identifying systems, locations, and services that handle sensitive data.

Selecting the appropriate HITRUST level (e1, i1, or r2) based on your organization’s needs.

  • Readiness Assessments: We support you in conducting a gap analysis that identifies weaknesses and helps prioritize remediation efforts. This step is critical for preparing for a validated assessment.
  • Validated Assessments: Conducted by independent HITRUST-approved assessors, validated assessments confirm compliance with HITRUST standards. We help you pass this stage leading to HITRUST certification.

Specifying the details pertinent to HITRUST factors such as organizational, geographic, compliance and technical factors.

These foundational activities set the stage for a successful assessment by ensuring all relevant components are accounted for.

Scoping the Assessment

Effective scoping ensures the assessment is focused on relevant systems, data, and processes. HITRUST only certifies systems implemented under the control of the assessed entity. This includes:

Identifying systems and services critical to your operations.

Excluding specific areas or systems that don’t impact compliance, if justified. Our team works closely with you to ensure the scope aligns with your business objectives and minimizes unnecessary complexity.

Requirement Statements

HITRUST CSF requirement statements form the core of the assessment process. These statements are derived from various authoritative sources and are tailored to specific organizational factors. Key aspects include:

Based on the chosen assessment level (e1, i1, or r2), a specific set of control requirements is selected.

Requirements are adjusted based on organizational, regulatory, and technical factors.

In cases where a specific control cannot be implemented as stated, organizations may propose alternate controls that achieve the same security objective.

These are additional measures implemented when the primary control cannot be fully satisfied. They must meet the intent and rigor of the original requirement.

Some controls may be inherited from service providers or parent organizations. These must be clearly documented and validated.

PRISMA Maturity Model

HITRUST uses the PRISMA maturity model to assess the effectiveness of controls across five levels:

Documented policies exist and are communicated to relevant stakeholders.

Detailed procedures are defined, documented, and consistently followed.

Controls are operational and integrated into business processes.

Key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics are established and regularly monitored.

Continuous improvement processes are in place, with regular reviews and updates.

This approach ensures that controls aren’t just implemented but are sustainable and effective.

Testing and Evidence Requirements
  • Controls are tested using a combination of inquiry, observation, and examination techniques.
  • For i1 and r2 assessments, sample-based testing is required for many controls.
  • Evidence must be current (typically within 90 days of the assessment date).
  • For implemented controls, evidence of actual operation is required, not just documentation.
  • Detailed documentation of test procedures, samples, and results must be maintained.
  • Working papers should clearly link evidence to specific control requirements.
  • For controls requiring sampling, the full population must be identified.
  • Sample sizes are determined based on population size and risk factors.
  • Samples must be representative and randomly selected.
  • Any deviations from standard requirements must be thoroughly documented and justified.
  • Exceptions require approval from the HITRUST Assurance team and may impact scoring.
Interim and Bridge Assessments

To maintain certification, organizations must demonstrate ongoing compliance:

  • Conducted mid-cycle to verify continued adherence to HITRUST requirements.
  • Extend certification validity temporarily, ensuring no lapse while preparing for re-certification.

HITRUST Scoring

Each control is scored on a scale of 0–100 across the PRISMA levels. Scores are aggregated to determine compliance, with a threshold required for certification. Our experts provide detailed guidance to maximize your scoring potential.

How We Help

Navigating the HITRUST certification process is complex—but with the right partner, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s how we support you at every step:

  • Help define assessment scope and certification level (e1, i1, r2).
  • Develop a roadmap for readiness and validation.
  • Provide tools and templates for efficient data collection.
  • Conduct readiness assessments to identify control gaps. Help collect the right evidence, review controls, document the required work papers and advise on compliance priorities.
  • Provide actionable recommendations to address weaknesses.
  • Develop a remediation plan tailored to your organization.
  • Work with you as an advisor throughout the remediation process.
  • Guide you through the validated assessment process.
  • Collaborate with external assessors to ensure a smooth audit experience.
  • Address gaps or corrective action plans (CAPs) during HITRUST’s quality assurance review.
  • Assist with interim and bridge assessments.
  • Provide advisory services for continuous improvement and rapid recertification.
  • Help maintain compliance with changing HITRUST standards.

Why Choose Us?

Our team includes experienced HITRUST practitioners who understand the nuances of e1, i1, and r2 certifications.

From scoping to post-certification support, we’re with you every step of the way.

Our services are customized to your organization’s size, complexity, and risk profile.

We streamline the assessment process, saving you time and reducing costs.

Our approach ensures not only compliance but also enhanced security and operational resilience.

Achieving HITRUST Certification is Challenging—Let Us Make It Easier

The HITRUST certification process is rigorous, but the benefits far outweigh the challenges. Whether you’re pursuing foundational e1 certification or the advanced r2 level, our team provides the expertise and guidance you need to succeed. Partner with us to simplify your journey, enhance your security posture, and demonstrate your commitment to protecting sensitive data.

Contact us today to begin your HITRUST journey.