HITRUST launches program to boost cyber security risk management

HITRUST has launched a Community Extension Program designed to provide healthcare organizations with the ability to discuss the challenges, best practices and lessons learned in effectively implementing a risk management program and improving cybersecurity practices by using its programs.

The program will promote education and collaboration in communities across the US and will feature town hall events in 50 cities with more added based on demand over the next 12 months.

With the persistence of cyber related threats, the not for profit company said the program will aid in streamlining adoption and promoting greater collaboration between organizations across the country. In addition, the growing number of CSF Assessors, currently over 65, will be leveraged as resources across the country and will enable more ongoing community collaboration.

“We encouraged HITRUST to launch this program and are extremely pleased to be a part of it in Boston,” said Taylor Lehmann, CISO, Tufts Medical Center. “The importance of improving the overall cyber resilience of organizations cannot be overstated. Although it’s a difficult goal, HITRUST provides a number of programs that make the goal achievable and sharing best practices, lessons learned and remediation strategies makes the community stronger.”

Michael Parisi, vice president, assurance strategy and community development, HITRUST, added: “We are very excited to be launching this new program and furthering HITRUST’s engagement with local communities.

“This program provides significant value by allowing organizations to engage with, and learn from, others in the community about how they approach the challenges related to managing risk, controlling compliance costs while effectively implementing a strong security posture and defending against cyber threats.”