Is Zapier HIPAA compliant?
Zapier is an online automation tool that allows you to connect and automate tasks between various web apps. You can create conditional statements called 'Zaps' to automate processes that would typically require manual effort, increasing productivity and efficiency. Zapier supports thousands of applications, ranging from productivity tools to social media platforms.
Zapier in healthcare
In a healthcare setting, Zapier can be leveraged to automate various non-sensitive tasks, enhancing efficiency and coordination between different software tools. For example, healthcare administrators might use Zapier to connect scheduling tools with email marketing platforms to send automated reminders for upcoming non-medical events or workshops. It could also be employed to synchronize staff scheduling across different departments or to automate the process of gathering and collating non-sensitive feedback from patients regarding their overall experience with the facility. The ability to create automated workflows between different applications allows healthcare organizations to streamline various administrative and operational tasks without involving patient-related or other sensitive information.
Zapier and HIPAA compliance
Zapier is not HIPAA compliant and will not sign a BAA, making it unsuitable for handling Protected Health Information (PHI) within the healthcare sector. While Zapier offers robust automation capabilities between various applications, it does not meet the stringent requirements laid out by HIPAA for securing and protecting patient data. Therefore, healthcare providers and organizations must exercise caution and avoid using Zapier to transmit, process, or store any information that falls under the umbrella of HIPAA regulations. The lack of compliance with HIPAA means that Zapier should only be used for non-sensitive tasks and processes in the healthcare environment. Any usage involving PHI could lead to legal consequences and breaches of privacy regulations.
Staying HIPAA Compliant
Take a look at our ultimate guide to HIPAA compliant software and services for help selecting compliant service providers. Though careful vendor evaluation and selection is only one piece of the puzzle for maintaining HIPAA compliance. At TeachMeHIPAA, we offer an affordable HIPAA training solution to ensure your staff are knowledgeable in how to comply, and to help you meet your legally mandated HIPAA training requirement with ease. Learn more about our tips and tricks for maintaining compliance with our HIPAA compliance blog.