4 min read · Educational guide · Sources reviewed November 6, 2026
Different responsibilities, shared goals
IT support often focuses on reliable systems, connectivity, and user support. Security readiness also considers workforce procedures, physical access, risk management, and documentation. An IT provider may offer some of these services; verify the actual contract and responsibilities.
Ask who owns the gaps
Identify who approves access, reviews vendor arrangements, coordinates training, and updates incident procedures. A simple responsibility matrix can prevent important work from falling between the practice and its providers.
Build on the existing relationship
A security assessment can complement your current IT support. Agree on access permissions, scope, evidence collection, and change approvals before work begins. A new tool or support contract does not establish compliance.