HIPAA Security Awareness and Training (45 CFR 164.308(a)(5))
Standard requiring a security awareness and training program for all workforce members with addressable specifications for security reminders, malware protection, login monitoring, and password management.
Primary source
45 CFR 164.308(a)(5) — eCFR →https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/subtitle-A/subchapter-C/part-164/subpart-C/section-164.308#p-164.308(a)(5)
Verified May 23, 2026 · This is the authoritative regulator URL. The summary below is a research aid; the linked source controls.
45 CFR 164.308(a)(5)(5)) requires a covered entity to implement a security awareness and training program for all members of its workforce — including management.
Addressable specifications: security reminders (periodic updates), protection from malicious software (procedures for guarding against, detecting, and reporting malicious software), log-in monitoring (procedures for monitoring log-in attempts and reporting discrepancies), and password management (procedures for creating, changing, and safeguarding passwords).
Training must be documented per the administrative requirements at 164.530(b)(2)(i) (Privacy Rule) and the documentation standard at 164.316(b)(1)(ii) (Security Rule, six-year retention). Training records must include who was trained, when, on what content, and the workforce member's acknowledgment.
OCR audits frequently find practices with informal training (a one-time discussion at hire) and no documentation. Defensible programs include role-based training, an annual refresh, simulated phishing for technical roles, sanction policy familiarity, and incident reporting drills — all on a logged cadence.
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Last reviewed May 23, 2026 · Citation verified May 23, 2026
Research aid, not legal advice. This summary is an administrative research aid prepared by D3rx. It does not certify compliance, provide legal advice, replace counsel, or guarantee an audit outcome. For authoritative regulatory text follow the primary source link at the top of this page. The practice remains responsible for reviewing, adopting, and maintaining its compliance program.