In 2025, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has already issued multiple resolution agreements citing the failure to conduct a proper Security Risk Analysis (SRA) a key requirement under the HIPAA Security Rule. These violations led to serious breaches of Electronic Protected Health Information (ePHI), costing covered entities and business associates millions in fines and reputational damage.
What Is a Security Risk Analysis (SRA)?
A Security Risk Analysis (SRA) is a formal evaluation of the risks and vulnerabilities to ePHI (Electronic Protected Health Information) created, received, maintained, or transmitted by a healthcare organization. It is a required component of HIPAA compliance under the Security Rule.
An effective SRA assesses:
Administrative Safeguards
-
Workforce access controls
-
Security awareness and training programs
-
Contingency planning
-
Incident response procedures
Physical Safeguards
-
Facility access controls
-
Workstation use and device security
-
Media disposal and reuse policies
-
Physical security of data storage
Technical Safeguards
-
Access control mechanisms
-
Encryption of ePHI in transit and at rest
-
Firewalls and antivirus tools
-
System activity reviews and audit logs
Important: A proper SRA is not a "one-and-done" checklist—it is an ongoing process of evaluation, mitigation, and improvement.
Why Is an SRA More Important Than Ever in 2025?
Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting healthcare organizations due to the high value of medical records ranging from $250 to $1,000 per record on the dark web. These attacks are growing in complexity, frequency, and financial impact.
Organizations that fail to protect ePHI risk:
-
OCR enforcement actions
-
Fines between $25,000 and $3 million
-
Loss of patient trust and business interruptions
In October 2024, the OCR launched the Risk Analysis Initiative to increase enforcement and audits focused on Security Rule compliance. According to former OCR Director Melanie Fontes Rainer:
"Failure to conduct a HIPAA Security Rule risk analysis leaves health care entities vulnerable to cyberattacks, such as ransomware."
Already in 2025, multiple enforcement actions have cited missing or incomplete SRAs as a key reason for penalties. These actions demand that organizations:
-
Complete an accurate and thorough SRA
-
Evaluate all systems and equipment that store or transmit ePHI
-
Maintain an updated inventory of data systems, applications, and storage
What Are the Best Tools and Solutions for Conducting an SRA?
Several official resources exist to guide organizations:
But for many organizations, the requirements are complex and time-consuming. That's where Healthcare Compliance Pros (HCP) can help.
HCP's Comprehensive SRA Solution Includes:
-
A guided Security Risk Assessment tool
-
One-on-one review with a HIPAA compliance consultant
-
A customized action plan for compliance
-
Ongoing support and documentation assistance
FAQs About Security Risk Analysis and HIPAA Compliance
What is the main purpose of a Security Risk Analysis (SRA)?
To identify and mitigate vulnerabilities that could compromise the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of ePHI.
Is an SRA required for all HIPAA-covered entities?
Yes. All covered entities and business associates must conduct and regularly update an SRA to comply with the HIPAA Security Rule.
How often should an SRA be conducted?
Best practice recommends conducting an SRA at least annually or whenever systems or processes significantly change.
What happens if I don't complete an SRA?
You may be subject to significant OCR fines, especially if a data breach occurs and an SRA was not performed or updated.
Take the First Step Toward HIPAA Compliance
Don't wait for a data breach or OCR audit to take action. A proactive Security Risk Analysis can protect your patients, reputation, and bottom line.
Schedule Your Free HIPAA Compliance Consultation Now
Let Healthcare Compliance Pros help your organization meet Security Rule requirements with confidence.