HIPAA compliant file storage platforms safeguard protected health information (PHI). Healthcare organizations must evaluate security features, pricing, scalability, integration options, and file size limits when selecting file storage tools.
HIPAA compliant file storage providers
These systems employ robust measures to safeguard patient data, including encryption, access controls, audit trails, and data backup. HIPAA compliant file storage offers features such as secure file transfer, collaboration tools, access controls, and auditing capabilities to protect patient information and comply with HIPAA guidelines.
1. Dropbox
Dropbox offers a HIPAA compliant solution that includes robust features :
- Encryption and access controls protect PHI.
- Audit trails and activity monitoring enhance security.
- Dropbox supports collaboration and file-sharing options, and integration with healthcare applications is possible.
- It provides ample storage capacity, allowing organizations to manage large volumes of files securely.
Pricing plans vary based on storage capacity and additional features. Dropbox offers monthly and yearly plans ranging from $9.99 to $24 per month. Larger organizations are advised to contact sales for pricing.
2. Paubox storage
Paubox Storage specializes in secure file storage and sharing. It offers features like:
- Data loss prevention
- Email archiving
- Secure email APIs
- Although file size limits may vary, Paubox ensures secure file transfer and storage for sensitive patient data.
Paubox storage is included in existing product plans.
3. Box
Box ensures encrypted data and access controls for PHI. Advanced features include :
- Audit trails and version history
- Secure collaboration and sharing,
- Seamless integration with healthcare systems and electronic health record (EHR) platforms.
Box's flexible pricing structure ranges from $15 to $35 a month. They offer storage between 5GB and 150GB on their premium plan.
4. NextGen Share
NextGen Share provides secure file storage and sharing capabilities tailored for healthcare organizations:
- Encryption and access controls ensure the confidentiality of PHI.
- Integration with the NextGen Healthcare EHR system streamlines workflows.
NextGen Share's pricing structure caters to the unique needs of healthcare providers. File size limits and scalable storage options allow efficient management of healthcare-related documents.
5. OneDrive
OneDrive, offered by Microsoft, includes HIPAA compliant file storage. It boasts these features:
- Encryption
- Access controls
- Collaboration features.
- Integration with the Microsoft Office suite enhances productivity.
OneDrive has various plans, most of which come with 1TB of storage and a Business plan which offers unlimited GB. These plans range from $7 to $15 a month.
6. Google Drive
Google Drive offers:
- Encryption and access controls ensure the protection of PHI.
- Collaboration and sharing options facilitate efficient teamwork.
- Integration with G Suite productivity tools streamlines workflows.
Google Drive's pricing plans start from $5.40 to $18 a month, except for their Enterprise plan, which they recommend that organizations contact sales to get pricing for.
Related: How to be HIPAA compliant without worrying about HIPAA compliance
Conducting a thorough evaluation of factors like security features, pricing, and size limits, alongside considering specific organizational needs and budget, will assist in making an informed decision.
Liyanda Tembani
