HIPAA Security Rule Controls
Comprehensive guide to HIPAA Security Rule controls with detailed implementation guidance, requirements, and compliance resources for healthcare organizations. Access actionable recommendations, downloadable checklists, and expert guidance for each control.
All HIPAA Controls
22 controls found
Security Officer
A covered entity must designate a security official who is responsible for developing and implementing its security policies and procedures.
Workforce Security
Implement policies and procedures to ensure that all members of the workforce have appropriate access to electronic protected health information (ePHI ...
Information Access Management
Implement policies and procedures for authorizing access to ePHI that are consistent with the applicable requirements of the Security Rule.
Security Awareness and Training
Implement a security awareness and training program for all members of the workforce (including management).
Security Incident Procedures
Implement policies and procedures to address security incidents.
Contingency Plan
Establish (and implement as needed) policies and procedures for responding to an emergency or other occurrence (for example, fire, vandalism, system f ...
Evaluation
Perform a periodic technical and non-technical evaluation, based initially upon the standards implemented under this rule and subsequently, in respons ...
Facility Access Controls
Implement policies and procedures to limit physical access to electronic information systems and the facility or facilities in which they are housed, ...
Workstation Use
Implement policies and procedures that specify the proper functions to be performed, the manner in which those functions are to be performed, and the ...
Workstation Controls
Implement physical safeguards for all workstations that access ePHI, to restrict access to authorized users.
Media Controls
Implement policies and procedures that govern the receipt and removal of hardware and electronic media that contain ePHI into and out of a facility, a ...
Device and Media Controls
Implement policies and procedures to address the final disposition of ePHI, and/or the hardware or electronic media on which it is stored.
Expert Implementation Recommendations
Get actionable guidance from our certified HIPAA experts to implement controls effectively and efficiently.
Risk Assessment Priority
Start with high-risk controls that address the most common HIPAA violations. Focus on access controls, encryption, and audit logging first to establish a strong security foundation.
- Implement multi-factor authentication
- Encrypt all PHI at rest and in transit
- Establish comprehensive audit trails
- Regular security awareness training
Documentation Best Practices
Maintain comprehensive documentation for all security controls. Use our downloadable checklists and templates to ensure nothing is missed during implementation and audits.
- Policy and procedure documentation
- Risk assessment reports
- Training records and certifications
- Incident response procedures
Ongoing Monitoring
HIPAA compliance is not a one-time effort. Establish regular monitoring, testing, and review processes to maintain compliance and address emerging threats.
- Quarterly security assessments
- Annual penetration testing
- Regular policy reviews and updates
- Continuous staff training programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about HIPAA Security Rule controls and implementation.
How many HIPAA Security Rule controls are there?
The HIPAA Security Rule contains 54 standards and implementation specifications across three main categories: Administrative Safeguards (18 standards), Physical Safeguards (4 standards), and Technical Safeguards (5 standards). Each standard may have multiple implementation specifications.
Which controls are required vs. addressable?
Required controls must be implemented as specified. Addressable controls allow flexibility in implementation but require documentation of why alternative measures were chosen or why the control was not implemented. All addressable controls must be evaluated and either implemented or documented with justification.
How often should controls be reviewed and updated?
HIPAA requires regular review and updates to security measures. We recommend quarterly reviews of high-risk controls, annual comprehensive assessments, and immediate updates when new threats or technologies are identified. Documentation should be updated whenever changes are made.
What's the difference between HIPAA and NIST guidelines?
HIPAA provides the legal requirements for protecting PHI, while NIST provides detailed technical guidance for implementing cybersecurity controls. NIST frameworks can help organizations meet HIPAA requirements more effectively by providing specific implementation guidance and best practices.
How can I prioritize which controls to implement first?
Start with a risk assessment to identify your organization's specific vulnerabilities. Focus on controls that address the highest risks first, typically access controls, encryption, and audit logging. Consider your organization's size, resources, and current security posture when prioritizing implementation.
Do I need to implement all controls even if they don't apply to my organization?
You must evaluate all controls for applicability to your organization. If a control doesn't apply, you must document why it's not applicable. This evaluation and documentation is required for both required and addressable controls to demonstrate due diligence in your compliance efforts.
Downloadable Resources
Get expert-developed templates, checklists, and guides to streamline your HIPAA compliance implementation.
HIPAA Controls Checklist
Comprehensive checklist covering all 54 HIPAA Security Rule controls with implementation guidance and documentation requirements.
Download PDFRisk Assessment Template
Professional risk assessment template with scoring methodology and remediation planning sections.
Download DOCXPolicy Templates
Ready-to-customize policy templates for access control, encryption, incident response, and more.
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