Question 1

How often does HIPAA require a risk analysis?

Accepted Answer

The Security Rule requires an accurate, thorough risk analysis and ongoing risk management, which OCR reads as at least annual and after any major change to systems or operations. A one-time analysis that is never updated is treated as no analysis, and it remains the most cited gap in enforcement actions.

Question 2

Is a HIPAA risk analysis the same as a security risk assessment?

Accepted Answer

They overlap but are not identical. The risk analysis is the specific Security Rule requirement to identify threats to protected health information and rate their likelihood and impact. A broader security risk assessment may add control testing, penetration testing, and policy review. OCR audits specifically for the documented risk analysis.

How much does a HIPAA risk analysis cost in 2026?