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Role-Specific Strategy
Expert verified by Raphael N, CPA

PCI DSS Compliance for HealthTech CISOs

Navigating PCI DSS as a CISO in the HealthTech sector requires a balance between technical rigour and operational velocity. This guide breaks down the critical priorities for your specific role and industry context.

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RN
Expertly reviewed by Raphael NCertified

Head of Compliance StrategyCPA, CISA, ISO 27001 Lead Auditor

Last Verified

January 11, 2026

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Strategic Priorities for HealthTech CISO

1

HealthTech-Specific Controls

Implement controls that address the unique risks of HealthTech, such as data privacy for sensitive AI training sets.

2

CISO Accountability

As a CISO, you are responsible for overseeing the compliance roadmap and auditor communication.

3

Evidence Automation

Leverage automation tools to minimize the manual burden on your HealthTech startup team while maintaining a continuous compliance posture.

RN

Raphael N

CPACISAISO 27001 Lead Auditor

Head of Compliance Strategy

Raphael leads go-to-market compliance strategy for high-growth SaaS and AI teams. With over a decade of experience across Big Four firms and fintech startups, he specializes in translating complex SOC 2 requirements into automated, engineering-friendly workflows.

Editorial Standards & Methodology

All RiscLens content is researched, written, and reviewed by compliance professionals with real-world audit experience. We maintain strict editorial independence and never accept payment for coverage or rankings.

Audit readiness checklist

  • Define scope and evidence owners for PCI DSS readiness
  • Map controls to your HealthTech workflows
  • Confirm evidence cadence and review approvals
  • Document exceptions and compensating controls
  • Validate auditor expectations before kickoff

Evidence to prepare

  • Network segmentation evidence
  • Vulnerability scan reports
  • Access control logs
  • Security awareness training

Frequently Asked Questions

How does PCI DSS differ for HealthTech startups?

HealthTech companies often face higher scrutiny due to the nature of their data. PCI DSS provides the foundational trust layer needed to close enterprise deals.

What is the role of a CISO during the audit?

The CISO typically manages the technical responses and ensures that the evidence provided matches the control descriptions in the PCI DSS framework.

About RiscLens

Our mission is to provide transparency and clarity to early-stage technology companies navigating the complexities of SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls 2) compliance.

Who we serve

Built specifically for early-stage and growing technology companies—SaaS, fintech, and healthcare tech—preparing for their first SOC 2 audit or responding to enterprise customer requirements.

What we provide

Clarity before commitment. We help teams understand realistic cost ranges, timeline expectations, and common gaps before they engage auditors or expensive compliance vendors.

Our Boundaries

We do not provide legal advice, audit services, or certifications. Our assessments support internal planning—they are not a substitute for professional compliance guidance.

Technical Definition

SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls 2) is a voluntary compliance standard for service organizations, developed by the AICPA, which specifies how organizations should manage customer data based on the Trust Services Criteria: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy.