Do I Need HIPAA If I Work Alone?
Working solo does not automatically remove HIPAA responsibilities.
Short answer
- Working alone does not automatically exempt a healthcare provider from HIPAA.
- HIPAA applies if you meet the definition of a covered entity or business associate.
- Your use of electronic billing, vendors, cloud systems, email, and telehealth may be relevant when reviewing your HIPAA responsibilities.
What to do next
- Determine whether you are a HIPAA covered entity or business associate.
- Review where PHI or ePHI is created, received, maintained, or transmitted.
- Review access controls, devices, vendors, backups, communications, and documentation.
Use the HIPAA Compliance Assessment to review key HIPAA requirements, identify potential gaps, and determine areas that may need further review.