Achieving and Maintaining HIPAA Compliance: A Healthcare Cybersecurity path to Compliance Success Story.
In the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles, a prominent Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) healthcare group faced a daunting challenge: transitioning from HIPAA non-compliance to full compliance across its nine locations. The stakes were high, as their IT infrastructure vulnerabilities threatened the security and trust integral to their operations. This is where Global IT™ stepped in, transforming their IT landscape and setting a new standard for excellence.
The Initial Challenge
The opportunity arose from a word-of-mouth referral, following a comprehensive audit conducted by an external compliance firm. This audit exposed critical deficiencies in their previous IT support, revealing bad actors within their systems. For the healthcare group, this was a wake-up call that necessitated immediate action. They needed an IT partner capable of swiftly relocating their entire environment, including their cloud datacenter and infrastructure management, without disrupting business operations.
Strategic Approach and Transparent Partnership
Global IT’s approach emphasized transparency and trustworthiness—core tenets that guided every interaction with the client. We presented industry-leading solutions from multiple vendors, complete with detailed pricing comparables, ensuring the healthcare group could make informed decisions confidently. As a SOC2 compliant and Hi-Trust certified firm with a long-standing presence in Los Angeles, Global IT demonstrated our commitment to quality and timely delivery through references from large clients.
Rapid Transition to HIPAA Compliance
One of the most significant hurdles was the absence of a network topology or detailed IT infrastructure documentation. Drawing on our extensive experience with enterprise-level companies and healthcare providers, we devised a thorough plan. Our network, systems, and cybersecurity teams conducted an on-site review, preparing for a potential hostile takeover—an essential step if the previous provider failed to cooperate.
During onboarding, our administration team meticulously constructed a topology of the existing network, created device lists, and built comprehensive notes. We onboarded all endpoints and updated all access credentials, evaluating systems, networks, and security to compile a list of recommendations. After reviewing and approving these recommendations, we developed a project pipeline and began work, ensuring alignment with the client’s priorities.
Comprehensive Equipment Upgrade
A crucial aspect of achieving compliance was the complete overhaul of end-of-life equipment across all locations. This upgrade was critical not only for compliance but also for maintaining endpoint security. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Global IT prioritized these upgrades, managing remote work considerations and supply chain issues effectively. Our projects team met weekly with leadership to provide status updates, ensuring transparency and collaboration.
Leveraging our partner relationships, we procured essential equipment such as desktops, laptops, switches, routers, APs, UPS units, and servers. As supply chain constraints intensified, we integrated cloud servers and virtual desktop instances for the international workforce, maintaining momentum for the growing organization. The result was a secure, HIPAA-compliant environment praised by outside cybersecurity auditors.
Commitment to Agility and Excellence
Global IT’s agility and commitment to continuous improvement are reflected in our rigorous technician certification process. Our technicians earn industry-accredited certifications annually, ensuring they are equipped to support our clients effectively. As more than just a Managed Service Provider, Global IT is a dedicated IT partner, invested in our clients’ success. We proactively mitigate change and risk, keeping IT operations at peak performance.
Located in Los Angeles, we pride ourselves on hiring and training locally. When you call our office, you connect with a local employee familiar with your company, ready to handle your requests with care and expertise.
Conclusion
Through strategic planning, transparent communication, and a commitment to excellence, Global IT transformed the Los Angeles FQHC healthcare group’s IT infrastructure. Achieving HIPAA compliance within twelve months, we not only addressed immediate needs but also laid the groundwork for sustained success. Our partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to securing the future of healthcare IT.
Global IT Communications, Inc
globalit.com
(877) 822-5565
6720 Bright Ave, Whittier, CA 90601
