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On some plansIs Google Drive HIPAA compliant?
Checked 6 Nov 2026 from 3 vendor sources
Google lists Drive as covered functionality under its Workspace BAA, so the BAA route runs through a Workspace account whose super admin has accepted it. So the answer depends on your plan. Check yours below before any patient data goes in.
| Plan or product | BAA |
|---|---|
| Accounts without a signed BAA, per Google’s statement that they must not use PHI | Not covered |
| Drive in a Google Workspace account with an accepted BAA | Covered |
What the BAA leaves out
- Third-party apps and Docs add-ons connected to Drive
How to get the BAA
From a super administrator account, open the Admin console and go to Account settings, then Legal and compliance, to review and accept the BAA.
What the vendor says to do
- A super admin accepts the BAA in the Admin console
- Restrict sharing outside the domain and set default visibility to private
- Set link sharing defaults to restricted or private
- Keep PHI out of file, folder and shared drive names
- Run file exposure reports in the Security Center periodically
Proof from the vendor
- HIPAA compliance on Google Cloud and Google WorkspaceDrive listed as covered, including Docs, Forms, Sheets, Slides and Vids
- Google Workspace and Cloud Identity HIPAA Implementation GuideDrive sharing recommendations and third-party app warning
- HIPAA Compliance with Google Workspace and Cloud IdentityBAA acceptance steps
This isn’t legal advice. A BAA is one requirement. Your clinic still has to set the tool up correctly and control who has access. Vendors change their terms, so confirm with the vendor before you sign. PHI means protected health information, which includes patient data.