Healthcare organizations must follow the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) to keep their patients’ credit card information confidential. A PCI audit is a series of tests to confirm your organization is meeting all PCI compliance requirements. Learn what is needed for PCI compliance by reviewing our PCI audit checklist.

1. Don’t Assume You’re Compliant

All healthcare organizations should be aware of the newest updates to PCI DSS regulations and make sure they comply. PCI DSS is continually evolving to ensure businesses are following the best security practices for cardholder data.

2. Create a PCI Compliance Team

A PCI compliance team includes a Compliance Manager and other individuals who understand the importance of PCI DSS compliance requirements. Each team member should have specific responsibilities and accountability.

Complete a Risk Assessment

3. Complete a Risk Assessment

A risk assessment helps your organization identify your security threats so you can take steps to reduce them. Define your critical assets and the risk level for each.

4. Document Policies and Procedures

Records of policies and procedures are essential to most PCI compliance requirements. Gather documentation for risk analysis results, security policies and procedures, and other files that show you’re addressing PCI requirements.

5. Identify Compliance Gaps

Review the PCI DSS requirements in detail to identify compliance gaps and create a plan to eliminate them. You can also conduct a gap analysis by partnering with a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA). This preparation will improve your likelihood of passing the audit.

6. Conduct Training to Educate Employees

Train your employees on PCI compliance requirements. Technical employees should have training or certification to operate the security controls, and nontechnical employees should have training in security awareness practices for social engineering, phishing attacks, and password protection.

Get Stakeholders Involved

7. Get Stakeholders Involved

When your organization’s stakeholders support your PCI audit, they can help you get the necessary funds and resources to help it run smoothly.

8. Stay in Touch With Your Assessor Throughout the Year

If your organization hits a rough patch with compliance, your QSA is an excellent resource due to their knowledge about audits, compliance, and PCI DSS regulations.

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9. Conduct a Pre-Audit Assessment

Conducting penetration testing and an internal audit will help your organization learn more about its security measures and their effectiveness. The test results will inform you of which areas are compliant and which need reassessment.

Contact Agio Today

Agio offers a PCI 360° Compliance Program to help healthcare organizations maintain their compliance and strengthen security. Contact us today to learn more.