New HIPAA Cybersecurity Rules: How Healthcare Organizations Can Prepare

By Clint Parsons, Director of Strategic Partnerships at SEAM

Healthcare providers are facing a major shift in cybersecurity compliance. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has proposed an update to HIPAA’s Security Rule, adding stricter requirements around multifactor authentication, encryption, patch management, incident reporting, and more. These changes aim to close security gaps, but they also come with a steep compliance burden—especially for organizations already operating on tight budgets.

The new rule was proposed in December and is currently open for public comment. Once finalized, the rule is expected to go into effect 60 days after publication, with covered entities and business associates having 180 days to comply. This means healthcare organizations must start preparing now to avoid compliance headaches later.

Many healthcare providers are asking the same question: How can we stay compliant without stretching our resources too thin? The answer lies in taking a strategic approach to data security, including IT asset management, secure data destruction, and cost-effective compliance solutions.

What These Changes Mean for Your IT Assets

A significant aspect of the new Security Rule revolves around protecting electronic protected health information (ePHI). While much of the focus is on active cybersecurity defenses, organizations must not overlook the security of retired or outdated IT assets. Devices that store patient data—whether servers, laptops, or medical equipment—can become compliance risks if not properly managed and disposed of.

Here’s how SEAM can help:

• Secure IT Asset Disposal: Many healthcare organizations don’t realize that old devices can still hold sensitive data, even after deletion. SEAM ensures complete data destruction through certified shredding and sanitization processes.
• Regulatory Compliance Support: The proposed Security Rule emphasizes risk assessments and compliance audits. Our team helps organizations document proper IT asset handling, reducing their liability and ensuring they meet audit requirements.
• Chain of Custody & Reporting: With stricter incident reporting and data protection mandates, organizations need airtight records of how their equipment is managed. SEAM provides documented proof of secure disposal, ensuring compliance with HIPAA and other regulatory frameworks.

Practical Steps to Prepare Now

Instead of waiting for the new Security Rule to go into effect, healthcare organizations can take steps now to strengthen their cybersecurity posture and compliance efforts:

• Assess your current data security risks – Identify where ePHI is stored, including legacy systems and old IT assets that may not be properly protected.
• Implement a secure IT asset disposal policy – Make sure all devices storing patient data are securely wiped or destroyed when they reach end-of-life.
• Ensure documentation and compliance tracking – Keep thorough records of how IT assets are managed to meet regulatory reporting requirements.
• Consider third-party expertise – If managing cybersecurity and IT compliance feels overwhelming, partnering with experts like SEAM can ensure your organization is following best practices without adding excessive internal workload.

The Bottom Line

The new HIPAA Security Rule is a wake-up call for the healthcare industry, making it clear that cybersecurity must be a top priority. While compliance may seem daunting, the right strategy can help healthcare providers strengthen their security posture without unnecessary costs or operational disruptions.

SEAM specializes in secure IT asset disposition, data destruction, and regulatory compliance support—ensuring healthcare organizations protect patient data at every stage of the IT lifecycle. Whether you need guidance on compliance requirements or a secure way to retire outdated equipment, we’re here to help.

Want to learn more? Contact SEAM today to discuss your IT asset security strategy and prepare for the changes ahead.

Clint Parsons is the Director of Strategic Partnerships at SEAM, specializing in building partnerships with businesses of all sizes. He ensures clients effectively navigate secure data destruction, responsible recycling, and maximize the resale value of their IT equipment while staying compliant with evolving regulations.