HIPAA Training for Therapists

Why HIPAA training matters

Workforce members who interact with protected health information need to understand the policies, procedures, and security practices relevant to their responsibilities.

Who may need training?

Depending on the structure of a practice and applicable HIPAA requirements, training may be relevant to workforce members such as:

• Therapists and counselors
• Administrative staff
• Billing staff
• Clinical support staff
• Other workforce members with access to PHI

Privacy topics to consider

• Recognizing protected health information
• Permitted uses and disclosures
• Handling patient requests
• Following practice privacy policies
• Protecting information during everyday workflows

Security topics to consider

• Password and authentication practices
• Device and workstation security
• Email and messaging risks
• Phishing and suspicious communications
• Remote-work and telehealth security
• Reporting suspected security incidents

Does HIPAA require annual training?

Avoid assuming that HIPAA establishes one universal annual training schedule for every organization and every requirement. Applicable training obligations should be evaluated based on the relevant HIPAA provisions, workforce roles, policies, and changes affecting the practice.

When additional training may be appropriate

• When relevant policies or procedures change
• When workforce responsibilities change
• When new systems or workflows are introduced
• When security concerns identify a need for additional awareness

Document relevant training

Practices should review applicable documentation requirements and maintain relevant training records where required or appropriate.

Review more therapist HIPAA requirements

HIPAA Compliance for Therapists →

HIPAA Laws for Therapists →

Review your HIPAA practices

Use the GetHIPAAcheck assessment to review key HIPAA requirements and identify potential areas that may need further attention.

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