Is Spark HIPAA compliant? (2026 update)

Spark is an email client that provides tools for managing and organizing emails, team collaboration, and inbox prioritization.

With Spark, users can efficiently sort their emails, collaborate on drafts, and prioritize important messages. This helps individuals and teams streamline communication, improve productivity, and maintain a clutter-free inbox.

Is Spark HIPAA compliant? No, based on our research, Spark may not be HIPAA compliant.

What changed this year?

As of April 2026, our review did not identify any publicly disclosed changes to Spark's HIPAA-related policies or BAA terms. Notably, Spark updated its privacy policy in November 2025, but the update made no mention of HIPAA compliance or BAA availability, and the core terms remained unchanged.

Will Spark sign a business associate agreement (BAA)?

No, Spark will not sign a business associate agreement and therefore is not HIPAA compliant. Spark's privacy policy and legal documentation contain no reference to HIPAA, protected health information (PHI), or business associate agreements.

Healthcare organizations should also be aware that Spark's AI features, including AI-assisted email drafts and meeting notes, process email content through third-party AI providers, including Azure OpenAI, OpenAI, Claude, and Google Vertex AI. These providers may retain user inputs for up to 30 days for abuse monitoring purposes, creating additional risk for any organization that handles PHI.

Conclusion

Spark does not sign a BAA and is, therefore, not HIPAA compliant.

Learn more: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide

FAQs

What is a business associate agreement?

A business associate agreement (BAA) is a legally binding contract establishing a relationship between a covered entity under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and its business associates. The purpose of this agreement is to ensure the proper protection of personal health information (PHI) as required by HIPAA regulations.

What is HIPAA?

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets national standards for protecting the privacy and security of certain health information, known as protected health information (PHI).

HIPAA is designed to protect the privacy and security of individuals' health information and to ensure that healthcare providers and insurers can securely exchange electronic health information. Violations of HIPAA can result in fines and penalties for covered entities.

Who does HIPAA apply to?

HIPAA applies to covered entities, which include healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses. It also applies to business associates of these covered entities. These are entities that perform certain functions or activities on behalf of the covered entity.