When healthcare providers choose a technology partner, they’re entrusting that vendor with sensitive patient data, operational systems, and regulatory compliance. In this context, SOC 2 certification plays a critical role in evaluating whether a technology partner can be trusted with that responsibility.
Understanding SOC 2
SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls 2) is an auditing standard developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). It focuses on how organizations manage data to protect the privacy and interests of their clients. Specifically, it evaluates the controls and processes related to the Trust Services Criteria:
- Security: Protection against unauthorized access.
- Availability: System availability for operation and use.
- Processing Integrity: System processing that is complete, valid, accurate, timely, and authorized.
- Confidentiality: Protection of sensitive information.
- Privacy: Collection, use, retention, disclosure, and disposal of personal information in line with an organization’s privacy notice.
What is the difference between SOC 2 Type 1 and Type 2
SOC 2 Type 1 examines the design of controls at a specific point in time. SOC 2 Type 2, by contrast, assesses how effective those controls are over a defined period (typically 3–12 months). This ongoing evaluation provides a more robust and reliable assurance of an organization’s security posture. Achieving SOC 2 Type 2 demonstrates not only that policies and controls are in place but also that they are consistently followed and effective in practice.
Why SOC 2 Matters in Healthcare
For healthcare organizations, patient trust and regulatory compliance are non-negotiable. SOC 2 provides a standardized way to ensure that technology partners—especially those involved in telehealth, EHR integration, or care coordination—uphold the highest standards of data security. Key benefits include:
- Vendor due diligence: Streamlining compliance evaluations during procurement.
- HIPAA alignment: Many SOC 2 controls overlap with HIPAA requirements.
- Risk mitigation: Reducing the chances of data breaches and operational downtime.
- Patient trust: Demonstrating a proactive approach to safeguarding protected health information (PHI).
The SOC 2 Type 2 Certification Process
SOC 2 Type 2 certification is conducted by an independent CPA firm and typically involves:
- Gap assessment: Identifying weaknesses against the Trust Services Criteria.
- Implementation: Addressing issues, documenting policies, and setting up technical controls.
- Monitoring period: For Type 2, the CPA firm observes how the controls operate over time.
- Audit and attestation: Issuing a detailed report that evaluates the effectiveness of controls throughout the monitoring period.
This process demands operational discipline and a commitment to ongoing security practices. It’s a significant achievement that sets organizations apart in terms of compliance maturity.
What This Means for AmplifyMD Partners
As a virtual care company working with hospitals and health systems across the country, AmplifyMD takes its security obligations seriously. Our SOC 2 Type 2 certification, first achieved on March 27, 2023, underscores that commitment. It confirms that our infrastructure, systems, and policies align with industry-leading best practices for data security—not just at a single point in time, but consistently over months of real-world operations.
For healthcare partners, this means:
- Peace of mind in choosing a secure telehealth platform.
- Confidence that sensitive patient data is encrypted, protected, and responsibly managed.
- A clear signal of AmplifyMD’s investment in long-term reliability and trust.
Choosing a SOC 2-Certified Vendor
Whether you’re evaluating telehealth providers, EHR vendors, or digital health apps, SOC 2 Type 2 certification should be a minimum requirement. It demonstrates an organization’s ability to meet complex compliance demands and their readiness to scale securely with your needs.
AmplifyMD is proud to be among the healthcare innovators raising the bar for security and compliance. Learn more about our approach to privacy and risk management, or contact us to see how our SOC 2 Type 2-certified platform can support your virtual care goals.
