Choosing the Right NHS DSPT Auditor: What to Look For

When it comes to the NHS Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT), your external audit isn’t just a compliance requirement; it’s a crucial step in proving your organisation’s commitment to data security. The quality of the audit will depend heavily on the expertise of the auditor you select, which makes choosing the right partner an important decision.

Not all auditors bring the same level of knowledge or support. Here’s what you should consider when making your choice.

Healthcare and Health Tech Expertise

Working with a generalist auditor can leave you with surface-level feedback that doesn’t reflect the specific risks of your sector. A specialist DSPT auditor with experience in digital health and medical devices understands the realities of NHS data handling, the cybersecurity challenges in health tech, and the regulatory pressures you face. This means their advice will be practical, relevant, and grounded in real-world challenges, not just theory.

A Proven Track Record

Trust is built on evidence. Before engaging an auditor, ask for case studies, client testimonials, or examples of how they’ve helped organisations like yours achieve DSPT compliance. A reputable firm will be transparent about their track record and eager to demonstrate the results it’s delivered. If an auditor cannot provide this proof, it’s worth questioning whether they’re the right fit.

A Partnership Approach

The right auditor should feel like a partner, not an inspector. They should take time to understand how your organisation operates, explain their findings in clear language, and answer your team’s questions. This collaborative style creates an environment where the audit process becomes a learning opportunity, helping you strengthen your systems rather than simply identifying weaknesses.

Support Beyond the Audit

A strong NHS DSPT auditor won’t just hand over a report and walk away. Instead, they will provide a clear and actionable improvement plan, with practical steps to close any gaps. More importantly, they should be available to support you as you implement these recommendations, ensuring that the improvements are sustainable and aligned with your business goals.

Preparing for DSPT v8

With the release of DSPT v8, the NHS has raised the bar on data protection requirements. For health tech innovators, this is not just an additional hurdle—it’s a chance to stand out. By embracing the updated standards and investing in an independent DSPT audit, you can show clients and partners that your organisation takes data security seriously.

Starting early will make the process smoother and less stressful. It also allows you to demonstrate a strong, validated security posture sooner, building trust with the NHS and giving you an edge in a competitive market.

Turning Compliance into Competitive Advantage

Your NHS DSPT audit is more than a pass/fail exercise. Done well, it’s an opportunity to strengthen your organisation’s reputation and build trust across the health sector. By choosing an experienced specialist auditor, you can transform compliance into a competitive advantage.

If you’re ready to simplify your compliance journey and prepare for DSPT v8, our team of expert auditors is here to help.  Book a call today and take the first step towards a smoother, more valuable audit.