HIPAA & BAA · Cloud storage / collaboration (Microsoft 365)
Is SharePoint HIPAA compliant?
Yes, but only as SharePoint Online under the Microsoft 365 BAA. SharePoint Online is an in-scope service under Microsoft's HIPAA BAA, provided via the Microsoft Online Services Data Protection Addendum.
Key facts
- BAA available: Yes — with a signed BAA
- What it takes: Eligible Microsoft 365 / SharePoint Online plan (not standalone consumer use)
- Official source: Microsoft — HIPAA/HITECH compliance offering — https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/compliance/regulatory/offering-hipaa-hitech (verified 2026-06)
How to use SharePoint in a HIPAA-compliant way
- Subscribe to an eligible Microsoft 365 plan that includes SharePoint Online.
- Confirm the Microsoft HIPAA BAA applies via the Online Services Data Protection Addendum.
- Verify SharePoint Online is in-scope for your intended PHI workloads.
- Configure security and access controls to meet HIPAA requirements.
- Retain records of the applicable BAA/DPA terms.
Important caveats
- Coverage is via the Microsoft 365 suite BAA — SharePoint is not a standalone consumer product with its own BAA.
- Only in-scope services are covered; confirm your specific configuration is included.
- The BAA does not by itself ensure compliance; appropriate controls and configuration are required.
The bottom line
No software is "HIPAA compliant" on its own. HIPAA compliance is a property of your organization, not a tool. Even with a signed BAA, you remain responsible for configuring SharePoint correctly, limiting access to PHI, training staff, and maintaining your own safeguards. This page is general information, not legal advice; confirm current terms with SharePoint.
Frequently asked questions
Does SharePoint sign a BAA?
Yes. Eligible Microsoft 365 / SharePoint Online plan (not standalone consumer use) A signed BAA is required before any PHI is involved.
Is SharePoint HIPAA compliant out of the box?
No software is "HIPAA compliant" by itself. Even when SharePoint offers a BAA, you are responsible for signing it, configuring the product correctly, restricting access, and maintaining your own administrative, physical, and technical safeguards.
What should I check before using SharePoint with PHI?
Coverage is via the Microsoft 365 suite BAA — SharePoint is not a standalone consumer product with its own BAA.
