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HIPAA Security Checklist for the Modern Practice

Protect your patients. Protect your practice. Protect your reputation.

Prepared by HaloCrypt LLC – Federal Contractor | CAGE 15YW8 | UEI DSN9V4E23N65 | www.thehalocrypt.com

🔒 1. Encrypt All Devices and Data

Why it matters: If a laptop or phone with patient info is stolen, encryption keeps the data unreadable.

Action: Turn on full-disk encryption on every computer and mobile device. Use encrypted email or secure portals for sending patient files.

👤 2. Control Who Has Access

Why it matters: Shared logins make it impossible to track who did what.

Action: Give every employee a unique username and password. Immediately deactivate accounts when staff leave.

🔐 3. Require Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Why it matters: Passwords get stolen. MFA stops most hacks dead.

Action: Turn on MFA for all remote logins, EHR access, email, and cloud storage.

🔄 4. Keep Systems and Software Updated

Why it matters: Out-of-date systems are hacker favorites.

Action: Schedule automatic updates weekly for Windows, browsers, EHR, routers, and antivirus software.

💾 5. Back Up Data Securely

Why it matters: Ransomware can lock your files. A clean backup saves you.

Action: Use encrypted cloud backups or offline drives. Test restore once a month.

📚 6. Train Your Team Regularly

Why it matters: Human error causes most data breaches.

Action: Run short cybersecurity refreshers every 6 months. Teach staff how to spot phishing emails and report incidents fast.

📋 7. Sign Business Associate Agreements (BAAs)

Why it matters: HIPAA demands BAAs with any vendor handling patient info.

Action: Confirm every IT company, billing service, and cloud provider has a signed BAA on file.

👁️ 8. Monitor and Audit Access Logs

Why it matters: Early detection stops major breaches.

Action: Review login and access logs monthly. Flag unusual after-hours or out-of-state logins.

🚨 9. Create an Incident Response Plan

Why it matters: Panic during a breach costs time and money.

Action: Write down exactly who to call, how to isolate systems, and how to notify patients if needed. Rehearse once a year.

📡 10. Lock Down Wi-Fi and Physical Access

Why it matters: Anyone on your guest Wi-Fi or walking into your server room could compromise data.

Action: Use separate Wi-Fi networks for guests and staff. Keep servers, routers, and backup drives in locked rooms.

⭐ Bonus: Review Annually

  • Conduct a full HIPAA Security Risk Analysis each year.
  • Update policies when technology or staff changes.
  • Keep all documentation — it's your proof of compliance.

✅ Quick Self-Check

ItemStatusNotes
All devices encrypted☐ Yes
MFA enabled on all systems☐ Yes
Backups tested monthly☐ Yes
Annual risk assessment completed☐ Yes
BAAs signed with all vendors☐ Yes

🛡️ Final Word

Cybersecurity isn't just IT — it's patient safety.
Small steps today prevent six-figure fines tomorrow.

Need help tightening your defenses?

Schedule a complimentary 15-minute HIPAA Security Check with HaloCrypt

Verified Federal Contractor – HaloCrypt LLC | CAGE 15YW8 | UEI DSN9V4E23N65