Every Administrative, Physical, and Technical Safeguard β with Required vs. Addressable tags, the fastest implementation path for each, progress tracking, and a printable PDF.
Before You Start
This checklist covers the HIPAA Security Rule β the rule that governs electronic PHI (ePHI). It does not replace the Privacy Rule or Breach Notification Rule but covers the controls most technology companies and business associates focus on. Use the filters to focus on specific safeguard categories or control types.
New to HIPAA? Read the full guide first: HIPAA Compliance Checklist: What You Actually Need β
2026 Proposed Changes: HHS has proposed major updates to the Security Rule that, if finalized (expected May 2026), would make most "Addressable" controls Required β including encryption at rest, MFA, and annual technical testing. See the 2026 Changes section below. We recommend implementing all controls as Required now regardless.
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The Full List
Check off controls as you implement them. Filter by safeguard category, Required vs. Addressable, or search by keyword. Each control shows the quickest practical implementation path.
Check boxes as you complete each control. Saves in your browser.
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Critical Requirement
A BAA is a legally required written contract between a covered entity and any vendor who creates, receives, maintains, or transmits PHI on their behalf. Operating without a BAA is itself a HIPAA violation β regardless of whether a breach ever occurs. This is one of the top causes of OCR enforcement actions.
Common mistake: Many companies assume that because their cloud provider is "HIPAA compliant," a BAA is automatically in place. It's not β you must explicitly sign the BAA through your account settings or a formal agreement. AWS, Azure, and GCP all require active BAA execution.
What's Changing
HHS proposed the most significant HIPAA Security Rule update since 2013, expected to be finalized by May 2026. The core shift: moving from a "reasonable and appropriate" flexibility model to specific, mandatory technical requirements. Implement these now regardless of finalization.
Important: These are proposed changes β not yet law. The rule is expected to be finalized in 2026, with a compliance grace period after that. However, implementing these controls now reduces risk and aligns with OCR's current enforcement priorities.
Common Questions
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