Is Google Ads HIPAA compliant? (2024 update)

Google Ads is Google's online advertising program. Through Google Ads, you can create online ads to reach people exactly when they're interested in the products and services that you offer. Google Ads is not covered by Google’s BAA, meaning it is not HIPAA compliant.

What is Google Ads?

Google Ads is an online advertising platform developed by Google. It allows advertisers to display brief advertisements, service offerings, product listings, or videos to web users. These ads can appear on Google's search engine results pages (SERPs), on websites that are part of the Google Display Network, on YouTube videos, and in various other places where Google has ad space.

Google Ads and business associate agreements (BAAs)

A business associate agreement (BAA) is a legally binding document that outlines the responsibilities and obligations between a covered entity and a business associate in the context of handling protected health information (PHI).

A BAA is crucial for maintaining compliance with HIPAA regulations, protecting patient information, defining legal responsibilities, mitigating risks, and establishing trust between covered entities and their business associates in the healthcare industry.

Google is HIPAA compliant, in that it is willing to get into BAA with covered entities. However, according to HIPAA Included Functionality, Google Ads is not covered by Google’s services that are willing to sign a BAA with covered entities that may wish to use Google Ads’ advertising platform.

Google Ads and data security

Google Ads takes several measures to protect user data and maintain a secure advertising environment. Here are some key aspects of how Google Ads addresses data security:

• Encryption: Google Ads uses encryption protocols, including Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) and transport layer security (TLS), to secure the transmission of data between users and the Google Ads platform. 
• Account security: Google Ads implements various security features to protect advertiser accounts. This includes two-factor authentication, login alerts, and other security measures to prevent unauthorized access.
  
  

Is Google Ads HIPAA compliant?

HIPAA compliance includes the BAA, and Google’s BAA does not cover Google Ads. Healthcare advertisements on Google Ads are subject to limitations, while any potential breach or violation of HIPAA that exposes PHI would result in liability for the covered entity. Conclusion: Google Ads is not HIPAA compliant.

Understanding HIPAA Compliance:

HIPAA compliance extends beyond just technical safeguards and software solutions. When evaluating a tool's or service's compliance, consider the following:

• Technical Safeguards: Although Google Ads is an important tool, other technical measures hold equal significance, such as HIPAA compliant email marketing.
• Employee Training: It is crucial to guarantee that all team members possess a comprehensive understanding of HIPAA regulations and adhere to best practices. Conducting regular training sessions plays a pivotal role in mitigating the risk of inadvertent breaches.
• Regular Audits: Periodic assessments of all systems and processes ensure that they remain compliant and adapt to any changes in regulations or technology.
• Data Access Controls: Implementing stringent controls on who can access protected health information and under what circumstances is a cornerstone of HIPAA compliance.