What is a HITRUST assessor?
A HITRUST External Assessor is a firm approved by the HITRUST Alliance to conduct validated CSF assessments (the r2 and e1 certifications). The External Assessor assigns a CCSFP (Certified CSF Practitioner) to lead the engagement; the CCSFP signs the assessment report. A HITRUST Readiness Licensee is a firm authorized to perform HITRUST readiness assessments (the precursor to a validated assessment) but cannot issue a final r2 or e1 certificate. The vast majority of healthcare organizations work with a Readiness Licensee first, then a different External Assessor for the validated assessment — though the same firm can do both if it holds both credentials.