What type of audit does HIPAA require covered entities to conduct?

The requirement for covered entities under HIPAA to conduct risk assessments is crucial for ensuring that they identify vulnerabilities related to Protected Health Information (PHI). These assessments help organizations understand their current security measures, recognize any risks that could lead to a data breach, and determine the effectiveness of their existing safeguards. By conducting these risk assessments, covered entities can develop strategies to mitigate risks and enhance the security of sensitive health information, ultimately protecting patient privacy and maintaining compliance with HIPAA regulations.

Other types of audits, such as compliance audits regarding employee performance, financial audits, or quality assurance audits on patient care, do not specifically address the security of PHI in the same manner. While these could be important for the overall functioning of a healthcare organization, they do not fulfill the specific requirement set by HIPAA to ensure the protection of health information against potential threats and vulnerabilities.