What’s Included in Managed IT vs Co-Managed IT for Medical Practices?

Medical practices typically choose between two IT service models: fully managed IT and co-managed IT. For small medical offices with 5–15 employees, fully managed IT is the most common option and usually costs $125–$175 per user per month. Co-managed IT is better suited for larger practices with internal IT staff. Choosing the wrong model can create gaps in security, support, and HIPAA compliance.

What Fully Managed IT Includes

Fully managed IT means the MSP takes full responsibility for your technology. This typically includes:

• Helpdesk support for all staff

• 24/7 system and security monitoring

• Cybersecurity and ransomware protection

• Data backups and disaster recovery

• Patch management and updates

• HIPAA-aligned safeguards and guidance

With fully managed IT, the MSP owns the outcome — not just individual tasks.

What Co-Managed IT Includes

Co-managed IT is a shared responsibility model. It typically involves:

• Internal IT staff handling daily support

• MSP supporting infrastructure, security, or projects

• Shared access to systems and tools

• Clear division of responsibilities

This model requires internal technical expertise and strong coordination.

Which Medical Practices Fit Each Model

Fully managed IT is usually best for:

• Small practices with no in-house IT

• Offices that want predictable monthly costs

• Practices with high compliance risk

Co-managed IT may work for:

• Larger practices

• Multi-location clinics

• Offices with dedicated IT staff

Risks of Choosing the Wrong IT Model

Choosing the wrong model can lead to:

• Security responsibilities falling through the cracks

• Missed updates or alerts

• Confusion during incidents

• HIPAA compliance gaps

In healthcare, shared responsibility can mean shared risk.

How to Decide Between Managed and Co-Managed IT

Ask yourself:

• Do we have internal IT expertise?

• Who is responsible for HIPAA documentation?

• Who responds during an emergency?

• Do we want full accountability?

For most small medical practices, fully managed IT provides clarity, security, and peace of mind.

Why Practices Choose Tryon Computers

Tryon Computers helps medical and dental practices in the White Mountains, AZ choose the right IT model, with a focus on HIPAA-compliant, fully managed IT designed for small healthcare environments.