Why a HIPAA Security Risk Assessment (SRA) Comes First

​Imagine running an EMS agency like driving an ambulance through a busy city. Before you even start the engine, you need to check your equipment, fuel level, and tires. If you skip that check, you risk breaking down before you even reach a patient.

In the same way, before you put any cybersecurity measures in place, you need to know where your risks are. That’s what a HIPAA Security Risk Assessment does—it’s the “pre-shift inspection” for your agency’s information systems.

Here’s why it comes first:

1. You can’t protect what you don’t know you have.

Many EMS agencies are surprised at how much patient data is stored in unexpected places—laptops, tablets, dispatch software, even portable medical devices. The assessment maps out all the locations where ePHI lives so nothing gets overlooked.

2. It shows the weak spots before an attacker does.

Just like checking for a worn brake line before driving, the assessment looks for gaps—outdated software, weak passwords, unsecured Wi-Fi, or devices without encryption.

3. It builds your game plan.

Without a risk assessment, cybersecurity can feel like guesswork. With it, you get a clear, prioritized list of actions—fix the biggest risks first, then work down the list.

4. It keeps you compliant—and out of trouble.

HIPAA doesn’t just suggest a risk assessment—it requires it. Skipping it is like skipping your vehicle inspection: you’re not only risking safety but also opening the door to fines and penalties.

5. It protects operations, not just data.

A cyberattack doesn’t just expose patient records—it can shut down dispatch, block access to protocols, and delay emergency response. The assessment helps ensure your systems stay online when they’re needed most.

Bottom line:

HIPAA Security Risk Assessment isn’t paperwork for the sake of paperwork—it’s the foundation of your agency’s cybersecurity. Just like you wouldn’t roll out on a call without checking your rig, you shouldn’t try to protect patient data or run EMS operations without first knowing the risks.​​