What must entities establish in order to comply with HIPAA's security standards?

To comply with HIPAA's security standards, entities must establish a comprehensive risk assessment and management strategy. This requirement is fundamental because the risk assessment process involves identifying potential vulnerabilities and threats to electronic protected health information (ePHI) that could potentially lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, or other security incidents.

By conducting a thorough risk assessment, organizations can evaluate their current security measures, establish the necessary safeguards, and create policies and procedures that effectively protect patient information. This proactive approach not only helps in complying with HIPAA regulations but also enhances the overall security posture of the organization, reducing the likelihood of data breaches and the potential consequences associated with them.

The other options, while they may involve important aspects of healthcare management and patient engagement, do not directly address the specific requirements outlined in HIPAA for protecting the security of patient information. The focus on risk assessment and management is a crucial element for entities to safeguard health information and ensure compliance.