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Is Grasshopper HIPAA compliant? (Update 2024)

Written by Tshedimoso Makhene | August 03, 2019

Grasshopper is a virtual phone system designed for small businesses and entrepreneurs. It provides a virtual phone number that can be used to make and receive calls, send texts, and manage voicemails without a physical phone line.

Is Grasshopper HIPAA compliant? No, based on our research, Grasshopper is not HIPAA compliant. 

See also: What is the key to HIPAA compliance?

 

Will Grasshopper sign a business associate agreement (BAA)?

No, Grasshopper will not sign a business associate agreement and therefore is not HIPAA compliant. However, the GoToConnect and GoToMeeting services can support HIPAA compliance if they are configured according to the Security Rule and a Business Associate Agreement is established.

 

Conclusion

Grasshopper does not sign a BAA and is therefore not 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.

Read also: FAQs: Business associate agreements (BAAs)

 

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.