Name: Rema Deo
Title: Managing Director
Employer: 24By7Security, Inc.
Location: Coral Springs, Florida
Education: MBA
Years in IT: 25+
Years in Cybersecurity: 5+
Cybersecurity Certifications: HCISPP
How did you decide upon a career in healthcare security and/or privacy?
I have been in risk management technology and compliance technology career for banking for several years, so when it was time for a change, Cybersecurity and Compliance related work was a logical next choice. 24By7Security has a client portfolio consisting of healthcare organizations as well as several other industries. Healthcare security and privacy work is still more nascent compared to financial technology, and therefore, it is not only a high priority for our clients, but it is also very interesting and diverse.
Why did you decide to pursue your HCISPP?
Since the majority of my client portfolio has been in healthcare over the past couple of years, I wanted to ensure that I obtained a leading healthcare IT and security certification. The HCISPP has helped me to increase my credibility to clients and it also ensures that I stay up-to-date with industry news and changes.
In cybersecurity, no two days are the same – what is your main role in your organization?
I have a leadership role at 24BySecurity encompassing corporate strategy, financial management, human resources, marketing and communications, procurement and vendor management. I am also responsible for specific healthcare clients needing HIPAA compliance work where we provide services such as annual HIPAA risk assessments, HIPAA training and HIPAA policies and procedures and remediation assistance.
Tell us about a project that you were particularly proud of -
In the last few weeks of 2017, we had to complete all HIPAA risk assessments for 150+ doctors’ offices under the umbrella of a large managed services organization. When the project began, we also had 3 slow weeks due to a natural disaster hitting the area! This meant that we had a backlog before we began, but the team came around and completed all the risk assessments and deliverables in an orderly and timely fashion.
What impact has the HCISPP had on your career?
Being certified as an HCISPP has made a difference in terms of my marketability and overall reputation with clients. Combining knowledge of the six domains is a valuable exercise while preparing for the HCISPP exam. The emphasis that the HCISPP certification places on different regulatory initiatives around the world helps in understanding client needs from a global perspective.
What advice would you give to those who are thinking about pursuing health IT security as a career?
As we know, no two days in cybersecurity are the same. In health IT security, things change from day to day as well. Every healthcare company or practice is different from the other in some way. The variety of issues that can come up in health IT security is interesting and challenging!
What advice would you give to those aspiring to get their HCISPP?
If you are on the fence thinking about getting your HCISPP, do not hesitate. The study material available from (ISC)² is comprehensive and extremely helpful for the exam. Be sure to learn about international laws and regulations and about the different security frameworks. Your work experience in healthcare will be of great use as you work towards this certification.
Show them you’re the health IT security & privacy go-to. Download your free HCISSP Ultimate Guide.