Amazon Alexa is a voice-controlled virtual assistant developed by Amazon.
Alexa is designed to perform various tasks, such as playing music, providing weather updates, setting reminders, and answering questions. By integrating healthcare skills, Alexa tries to streamline daily healthcare processes and improve patient experience.
Is Amazon Alexa HIPAA compliant? Yes, based on our research, Amazon Alexa can be HIPAA compliant.
Will Amazon Alexa sign a business associate agreement (BAA)?
Yes, Amazon Alexa will sign a business associate agreement, which can be reviewed here.
What does the Amazon Alexa BAA cover?
The Amazon Alexa BAA covers the use and disclosure of protected health information (PHI), stating, “Amazon will Use and Disclose PHI only as permitted by this Alexa BAA or as Required by Law. Amazon will not Use or Disclose PHI in a manner that would violate HIPAA if done by a Covered Entity, unless permitted under HIPAA for a Business Associate.”
Their BAA covers:
- Protection of PHI
- Accounting of disclosures
- Reporting of impermissible uses and disclosures
- Reporting of security incidents
- Reporting of breaches
Conclusion
Amazon Alexa signs a BAA and is, therefore, HIPAA compliant.
Learn more: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide
FAQS
What is a business associate agreement?
A business associate agreement (BAA) is a legally binding contract establishing a relationship between a covered entity under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and its business associates. The purpose of this agreement is to ensure the proper protection of personal health information (PHI) as required by HIPAA regulations.
What is HIPAA?
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets national standards for protecting the privacy and security of certain health information, known as protected health information (PHI).
HIPAA is designed to protect the privacy and security of individuals’ health information and to ensure that healthcare providers and insurers can securely exchange electronic health information. Violations of HIPAA can result in significant fines and penalties for covered entities.
Who does HIPAA apply to?
HIPAA applies to covered entities, which include healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses. It also applies to business associates of these covered entities. These are entities that perform certain functions or activities on behalf of the covered entity.
Farah Amod
