Skip to the main content.
Talk to sales Start for free
Talk to sales Start for free

2 min read

Is Jira HIPAA compliant? (Update 2024)

Is Jira HIPAA compliant? (Update 2024)

Part of the Atlassian family, Jira is a project management tool built for software development teams. Jira is designed specifically for software development project management, and it stands out as one of the few tools that can cater to varying degrees of experience.

As an Atlassian product, Jira is willing to sign a BAA, securing its title as a HIPAA compliant cloud service.

 

What is Jira?

Jira is a widely used project management and issue tracking software developed by Atlassian. It's designed to help teams plan, track, and manage their work efficiently. Created for software development teams, Jira has expanded its use to various industries and teams with different workflows.

According to Cloudwards, Jira is part of their “best project management software.” Cloudwards experts, “love that Jira has made a conscious effort to simplify in-app use, allowing users to focus on their software development projects rather than how to use the software. However, there is room for improvement, especially in terms of navigation and terminology. “ 

 

Jira and business associate agreements (BAAs)

business associate agreement (BAA), as defined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), is an essential contract that specifies third-party suppliers' obligations while managing protected health information (PHI). A business associate should sign a BAA if their software or service handles, saves, or transmits PHI on behalf of a healthcare organization.

Healthcare organizations can leverage Jira to manage projects such as software development, clinical trials, or quality improvement initiatives, track IT operations including support tickets and system upgrades, and coordinate tasks related to patient care, administrative processes, and facility management. Given its use in the healthcare industry, Jira can be categorized as a business associate. 

According to Atlassian's (Jira’s mother company) HIPAA Implementation Guide, a BAA can be executed for the "Standard, Premium, and Enterprise plans offered by Jira Software, Jira Service Management, and Confluence." As a user of Atlassian products, you must use Atlassian’s products according to HIPAA guidelines. You must also sign a BAA agreement with any third parties involved in your association with Atlassian.

Learn moreOverview of Atlassian’s HIPAA compliance

 

Jira and data security

Jira employs security best practices that use a layered approach to safeguard customer data. Jira's platform and processes integrate several tools, such as detections program, secure software development, and external penetration testing, alongside an expanding range of controls designed to enhance your information's protection.

As part of their shared security model, Jira implements internal security features like encryption, Zero Trust architecture, authentication, and audit logs. 

 

Is Jira HIPAA compliant?

With its multi-layered security infrastructure and shared security model, Jira showcases a dedication to data security whereby both the customer and Atlassian bear responsibility for ensuring secure handling/sharing of information. Furthermore, their agreement to sign on as a business associate affirms adherence to HIPAA standards.

Based on these factors, Jira is HIPAA compliant.

 

Understanding HIPAA Compliance

HIPAA compliance extends beyond just technical safeguards and software solutions. When evaluating a tool's or service's compliance, consider the following:

  • Technical Safeguards: While tools like Jira play a crucial role, other technical measures, such as HIPAA compliant email, are equally vital.
  • Employee Training: Ensuring all staff members are well-versed in HIPAA regulations and best practices is paramount. Regular training sessions can help prevent unintentional breaches.
  • Regular Audits: Regular assessments of all systems and procedures ensure adherence to HIPAA regulations while accommodating regulatory or technological changes.
  • Data Access Controls: HIPAA compliance relies on the implementation of strict regulations governing the accessibility and conditions surrounding protected health information access.

Subscribe to Paubox Weekly

Every Friday we'll bring you the most important news from Paubox. Our aim is to make you smarter, faster.