Exploring the latest advances in cybersecurity with HITRUST CSF v11.3

The launch of HITRUST CSF v11.3 represents a significant advancement in healthcare information security frameworks. This latest version not only aligns with current cybersecurity needs but also anticipates future requirements with an emphasis on AI compliance, ensuring organizations are well-equipped to protect sensitive data as the threat landscape continues to evolve.

The key updates of HITRUST CSF v11.3

By addressing the latest regulatory requirements, enhancing protections against sophisticated cyber threats, and streamlining the assessment process, HITRUST CSF v11.3 shows that HITRUST continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting organizations in their quest for robust data protection and compliance.

1. Integration of authoritative sources
The inclusion of FedRAMP r5, and TX-RAMP into HITRUST CSF v11.3 is a strategic move to standardize the approach towards compliance for entities engaged with government contracts. StateRAMP r5, and TX-RAMP r5 into HITRUST CSF v11.3 is a strategic move to standardize the approach towards compliance for entities engaged with government contracts. The NIST SP 800-53 R5 mapping also underwent slight improvements reflecting updates from NIST SP 800-53 Release 5.1.1, encompassing the addition of one new control (IA-13) and enhancements to three existing controls.

These additions underscore the importance of a unified framework that addresses specific regulatory requirements, facilitating a smoother pathway to compliance for organizations navigating the complex landscape of government information security standards.

2. Enhanced protections with NIST SP 800-172
With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, the integration of NIST SP 800-172 into the HITRUST framework enhances protections for Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). This update is particularly beneficial for organizations with high-risk profiles, offering a tailored approach to the HITRUST r2 Assessment that is both rigorous and relevant.

3. Foundation for CMMC Level 3 requirements
Preparing for compliance with the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 3 requirements is now more attainable with HITRUST CSF v11.3. This serves as a foundation for organizations to meet stringent NIST standards, positioning them to address future compliance needs effectively.

4. Security for AI systems with MITRE Atlas Mitigations
Acknowledging the growing role of artificial intelligence in today’s technology landscape, HITRUST has included MITRE Adversarial Threat Landscape for Artificial-Intelligence Systems (MITRE Atlas) mitigations. This ensures that security measures keep pace with the advancements of AI.

This transition towards incorporating advanced AI security measures through the inclusion of MITRE Atlas mitigations in HITRUST CSF v11.3 seamlessly complements the HITRUST AI Assurance Program launched in October 2023, further strengthening the framework’s capacity to secure AI-powered systems in the healthcare sector.

5. Streamlined assessment process
Efficiency is at the heart of the updated framework, with a significant reduction in redundancy across requirement statements. This streamlining effort has led to a decrease in the average r2 assessment size, making the certification process more manageable for organizations without compromising on control coverage.

6. Alignment with PCI DSS 4.0
The latest framework update aligns closely with the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and data protection, echoing the robust standards set forth by PCI DSS 4.0. Both frameworks prioritize the security and integrity of sensitive data within organizations, emphasizing comprehensive risk management and compliance measures. HITRUST CSF v11.3’s enhancements integrate elements that mirror the updated requirements of PCI DSS 4.0, ensuring that organizations adhere to stringent guidelines for safeguarding payment card data and other critical information.

Impact on organizations

The updates in HITRUST CSF v11.3 bring about several key impacts for organizations pursuing HITRUST CSF compliance in the evolving threat landscape, including:

• Staying ahead of regulations: Organizations can now remain compliant with the latest industry standards and requirements, addressing current and future regulatory challenges.
• Adapting to the cyber threat landscape: With the inclusion of new authoritative sources and enhanced protections, organizations are better equipped to tackle the dynamic cyber threat environment.
• Efficiency in compliance efforts: The streamlined assessment process reduces the time and effort required for HITRUST Certification, enabling organizations to focus on critical business operations while maintaining high security and compliance standards.

Transitioning to HITRUST CSF v11.3.0

Starting April 16, 2024, the option to generate new e1 and i1 assessment objects, including i1 rapid recertification assessments, using CSF v11.2 in MyCSF has been deactivated. From now on, all new e1, i1, and rapid recertification assessments must be initiated with CSF v11.3. While existing e1 and i1 assessments created with CSF v11.2 remain eligible for submission post April 16, 2024, HITRUST will provide a 90-day notice prior to announcing the submission deadline for e1 and i1 assessments using v11.0.0, v11.0.1, v11.1.0, and v11.2.0. This transition period provides an opportunity for entities to assess their readiness and make necessary adjustments to align with the updated standards.

For organizations navigating these changes, A-LIGN offers diagnostic and gap assessments to bridge the gaps between previous HITRUST versions and v11.3. These services are designed to guide entities through the framework’s intricacies, ensuring a smooth and effective transition.

Learn more about pursuing HITRUST Certification with the latest framework updates by visiting https://www.a-lign.com/service/hitrust.