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Is Microsoft Ads HIPAA compliant? (Update 2024)

Written by Farah Amod | March 05, 2021

Microsoft Advertising is an online advertising platform developed by Microsoft, enabling advertisers to bid for displaying brief ads, service offers, product listings, and videos to web users. 

With Microsoft Ads businesses reach a wide audience, drive traffic, and promote their products or services across Microsoft's network, including search engines like Bing.

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

 

Will Microsoft Ads sign a business associate agreement (BAA)?

No, Microsoft will not sign a business associate agreement for Microsoft Advertising and therefore is not HIPAA compliant.

 

Conclusion

Microsoft Ads 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.

 

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 big 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.