Beginnerpractice manager
HIPAA policies without the three-ring binder fantasy
You need written policies, but they should match what you actually do.
TL;DR
Start with short policies on privacy, security, breach response, and workforce sanctions. Update them when workflows change; train staff to the real version.
Updated 2026-04-21
Policies are how you prove you meant to run the practice responsibly, not a pile of paper nobody reads.
Start small and honest
Write one page each on:
- Who is the privacy official and how to reach them.
- How staff request access to systems.
- What to do if you suspect a breach or improper access.
- How sanctions work when policies are broken.
Tie policies to training
If training says "lock your screen" but no policy mentions it, auditors notice the gap. Align training decks and employee handbook language.
Review yearly
Pick a calendar reminder to read policies against actual workflows, especially after EHR upgrades or new vendors.
Not legal advice. Educational overview only; consult qualified counsel for your situation.