How long does a HIPAA certification last?

The certification process requires a combination of classroom and online training and an assessment or examination. The HIPAA certification applies across all states in the United States and to all health care providers, health plans, and other entities that handle PHI.

A HIPAA certification demonstrates a strong understanding of a federal law that sets standards for protecting the confidentiality and security of protected health information. HIPAA certification does not expire.

Everyone must take the HIPAA Awareness training course required by the HIPAA Privacy regulations. This training covers each person's responsibility and requires safeguards before being given access to protected health information. After that, there are five different levels of HIPAA certifications that you can get, and they include:

• Healthcare Provider. Any individual or organization involved in the direct medical treatment of patients.

• Mental Health. Any individual or organization involved in direct medical treatment of patients involving mental health.

• Business Associate. Any individual or organization that provides products or services to healthcare providers, health insurance providers, employer group health plans, or healthcare clearinghouses.

• Insurance Brokers and Agents. Any individual or organization that provides health insurance brokerage or administration services.

• Employer and Employer Group Health Plans. HR staff of any organization involved in sponsoring and managing group health plan benefits for its employees.