Avoiding HIPAA Fines: Key Cybersecurity Changes Coming for Healthcare Providers in 2026

Hi! I'm Stephanie Rodin, host of the Speaking with Steph podcast. In this episode, I want to speak to you about the upcoming HIPAA updates set to take effect in 2026, which will introduce important new cybersecurity requirements for healthcare.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How HIPAA is being updated in 2026 to address rising cybersecurity risks driven by technology and AI.
• How certain cybersecurity language will now shift from recommendations to mandatory requirements for covered entities and their business associates.
• How annual compliance audits and enhanced risk management will become required to ensure ongoing alignment with the new rules.
• When the updated HIPAA rules are expected to take effect, with implementation beginning in mid-2026 and compliance deadlines extending into late 2026 and early 2027.
• Why providers should review their HIPAA policies, business associate agreements, cyber insurance policies, and IT management in order to reduce exposure to fines and breaches.
• What technical safeguards will be expected, including multi-factor authentication, encryption, and stronger controls over electronic protected health information.

Stephanie Rodin is a partner at Mandelbaum Barrett PC, a full-service law firm that has been serving clients since 1930. With decades of collective experience, the firm takes a collaborative and proactive approach to legal counsel, advocating for clients with care, attention, and dedication.

Before joining the firm, Stephanie was the founder and principal of Rodin Legal, P.C., and has been practicing law since 2000. Throughout her career, she has focused extensively on supporting healthcare professionals.

Having grown up in a family of medical and dental practitioners, Stephanie was immersed in the healthcare world from an early age. This unique exposure gave her firsthand insight into the legal and operational challenges faced by medical professionals, an experience that continues to inform her legal practice today.

Website: https://www.mblawfirm.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanierodin/