HIPAA Security Policy Template

Download a HIPAA Security Rule policy template for small medical clinics. Covers administrative, physical, and technical safeguards required by 45 CFR §§164.308–164.316.

Short answer

A written HIPAA Security Rule policy template covering the required and addressable implementation specifications for administrative, physical, and technical safeguards, formatted for small clinic use.

What is inside

Covers all three safeguard categories: administrative (§164.308), physical (§164.310), technical (§164.312)
Distinguishes required from addressable specifications with plain-language rationale for small clinics
Security Officer designation section with defined incident response and risk analysis responsibilities
Workforce access control procedures including termination and access review schedules
Device and media controls section covering workstations, mobile devices, and disposal

We publish the same practical templates and decision tools that clinics use to structure recurring HIPAA work. No enterprise gate. No resource-library gimmicks. Just practical material delivered quickly.

Editorial details

Written by: Angel Campa

Reviewed by: PHIGuard Compliance Research

Updated: April 23, 2026

Best next step: Open the matching product path

Verified: April 23, 2026

Sources

45 CFR §164.308 — Administrative Safeguards | eCFR / HHS
45 CFR §164.310 — Physical Safeguards | eCFR / HHS
45 CFR §164.312 — Technical Safeguards | eCFR / HHS
45 CFR §164.316 — Policies and Procedures and Documentation Requirements | eCFR / HHS
NIST SP 800-66r2 — Implementing the HIPAA Security Rule | NIST

Download the PDF

A written HIPAA security policy covering all three safeguard categories — ready to hand to your Security Officer

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Questions

What is the difference between required and addressable HIPAA security specifications?

Required specifications must be implemented as stated. Addressable specifications must also be implemented, but covered entities may use an alternative measure that achieves the same purpose if the specification is not reasonable and appropriate given their size and capabilities. Addressable does not mean optional — it means flexible. Document your reasoning.

Does a small clinic really need a written security policy?

Yes. 45 CFR §164.316 requires covered entities to maintain written policies and procedures for all Security Rule standards and implementation specifications. The requirement applies to every covered entity regardless of size.

How does a HIPAA security policy differ from a privacy policy?

The privacy policy governs how PHI is used and disclosed. The security policy governs how ePHI is protected — access controls, encryption, device management, incident response, and risk management. Both are required and both must be in writing.

How often must a HIPAA security policy be reviewed?

45 CFR §164.316(b)(2) requires periodic review and updates in response to environmental or operational changes. Most clinics conduct a formal annual review and update whenever a significant change occurs — new EHR system, change in vendor, staff turnover in IT roles.