Secure HIPAA Messaging Apps for Healthcare Teams

“Was that message really secure?”

It’s a question every healthcare professional should be asking, especially after sending a patient update, lab result, or internal report. Because in healthcare, a quick message isn’t always just a message — it’s protected health information (PHI) that has to be kept confidential.

How many times have you clicked send and then wavered, hoping that that critical message was safely secure? In an environment dominated by strict HIPAA protocols and constant cybersecurity breaches, unsecured communication is a risk no clinic or care team can afford.

Security it’s the foundation of compliant, accountable healthcare communications. Every message, every note, every data point that’s sent has to be encrypted, regulated, and only accessible to the appropriate users.

That is where HIPAA-compliant messaging apps come into play. They don’t simply send your messages — they secure them. They keep confidential information safe, reduce the risk of breaches, and enable your team to stay connected while staying compliant.

Among the available platforms, there are some that specifically have the special needs of healthcare and life sciences in mind — combining encrypted messaging with compliance features like data loss protection and access control. Chanty has a safe space for HIPAA-compliant messaging, task management, company-wide announcements, and admin-level control — all in one intuitive workspace.

It’s a solution built not just for speed, but for security at every step. With features such as two-factor authentication, data encryption on all devices, and the capability to store information on your own servers, Chanty enables medical teams to focus on care itself, not configuration.

If you’re curious how it can work for your team, you can explore how it’s already helping healthcare organizations collaborate safely and efficiently.

Whether you’re a care provider, administrator, or part of a clinical operations team, adopting a HIPAA-compliant messaging app isn’t just smart — it’s essential. Let’s take a closer look at how these tools work, what to look for, and why getting it right matters more than ever.

The 8 best secure HIPAA messaging apps

• Chanty for HIPAA-compliant collaboration with task management and admin controls
• Klara for encrypted patient messaging and appointment scheduling
• MessageDesk for safe SMS conversations with patients
• TigerConnect for real-time team messaging and HIPAA-aligned collaboration
• Textedly for mass texting and automated alerts under HIPAA standards
• HelloHealth for private patient communication and engagement
• Rocket.Chat for open-source, HIPAA-ready team messaging
• Notifyd for internal healthcare notifications and private team messaging
• Brosix for encrypted team chats over private networks
• OnPage for urgent alerts and critical messaging in healthcare settings
• Blaze for building HIPAA-friendly communication apps without coding
• Solutionreach for outreach, reminders, and compliant patient interaction
• OhMD for texting and video calls with patients and clinical staff
• Updox for HIPAA-compliant forms, messaging, and telehealth
• Doxy.me for private video visits with patients in full compliance

What makes a text messaging app HIPAA-compliant?

We live in an era where everyone texts about everything — from scheduling appointments to buying groceries — so healthcare communication requires much more. Standard messaging apps simply can’t offer the security needed when working with sensitive patient information.

The messaging app is HIPAA compliant and is made to strictly follow the requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), a federal law in the United States designed to protect patient health data. The apps ensure that messages, files, and patient data are all encrypted end-to-end, so only authorized users can view the contents. Even the service provider does not get to see the messages.

Encryption alone, however, is not sufficient. Compliant platforms also include multi-factor authentication, secure backup, remote wiping, and comprehensive audit logs. Some have centralized dashboards where administrators can control access, apply policy, and generate automated compliance reports.

It’s also noteworthy to understand how HIPAA is different from the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). While both are focused on data privacy, HIPAA deals with protected health information (PHI) in the U.S. healthcare sector alone. GDPR applies more broadly across sectors in the European Union, regulating the processing of personal data as a whole. HIPAA lays a focus on confidentiality and access controls within a healthcare setting, while GDPR assigns strong priority to consent, transparency, and rights to data.

For health care organizations that possess operations on both U.S. and European soil, choosing a platform that supports both HIPAA and GDPR compatibility is vital. Chanty, for example, is fully compliant with HIPAA, DLP, and GDPR requirements, creating a safe space for communication by the clinical, administrative, and research personnel operating on both the Atlantic as well as European shores.

These tools function as a digital shield, keeping sensitive exchanges private and protected. A modern HIPAA-compliant messaging app helps ensure your internal communication stays safe and legal, even in high-pressure or remote settings.

Why HIPAA-compliant messaging apps are necessary

You could wonder: Why not just use a regular messaging app? While applications such as WhatsApp or iMessage are widely recognized as being used as private messaging applications, they are not built to meet the security and privacy standards of healthcare communication.

A HIPAA-compliant messaging system protects data not only during transmission, but also when it’s stored or being used. Sharing patient data via non-compliant applications puts your organization at risk — legally and reputationally. HIPAA misconduct can cost your organization dearly in fines, as well as crippling loss of credibility.

On the other hand, secure healthcare messaging systems are designed to integrate seamlessly with tools like electronic health records (EHR) and practice management systems. This provides real-time interaction and efficient workflows and total compliance. Features like message expiration, encrypted file transfer, and audit trails enable easy documentation of interactions and privacy protection without occupying your staff.

And if your business serves both U.S. and EU patients or partners, HIPAA and GDPR compliance is not a nice-to-have. It’s a must-have. That’s why Chanty, with native compliance for both regulations, are increasingly being used by global healthcare teams.

When your work involves patient data, lab results, or therapy sessions, the right messaging application is more than a nicety. It’s a key part of being safe, compliant, and legal in modern digital healthcare.

The critical role of secure hospital communication systems in HIPAA compliance

By now, we’ve seen why HIPAA-compliant messaging is more than just a legal formality — it’s the standard for protecting sensitive health information in digital workflows. But how does this translate to daily operations inside hospitals?

In any medical setting, communication is the backbone of care. Timeliness matters. Precision matters. And these days, so does security. That’s where secure hospital communication systems come in — systems not just to transmit messages, but to protect every doctor’s note, test result, or update along the way.

These systems act as a digital shield across departments. Built to meet HIPAA standards, they offer the tools necessary to keep communication both efficient and compliant — even in high-pressure environments like ERs or surgical units.

Key capabilities of secure hospital communication systems:

• End-to-end encryption to ensure that only authorized staff can access messages.
• Audit trails for tracking who sent, received, or read each communication.
• Secure sharing of lab results, charts, or prescriptions files.
• User access controls that dictate who views specific patient information.
• Multi-device support so clinicians can send encrypted messages from mobile, tablet, or desktop.
• Integration with EHR systems for a more efficient clinical workflow.

More hospitals are turning to these tools not only to improve internal coordination, but also to speed administrative processes — from appointment scheduling and discharge planning to automated patient reminders. Where privacy and accuracy hand in hand, secure patient messaging solutions provide the backbone that supports modern, high-speed healthcare.

Key features to look for in a HIPAA compliant text messaging app

Choosing the right HIPAA compliant messaging application can be daunting. You want an application which is not just well-protected, but practical too — that’s going to maintain your communication in compliance without muddying up your team’s day. What actually matters, then? Let’s break down the essentials for secure patient messaging software.

1. End-to-end encryption

Imagine encryption as your digital bodyguard. End-to-end encryption means only the receiver and sender have the ability to read the message — no one else, not even hackers or the service provider. This is a requirement of any HIPAA compliant messaging app. Without it, patient information isn’t really protected, regardless of what the app guarantees.

2. Audit trails

Ever wonder who saw a message and when? Audit trails give you that visibility. They track who sent, opened, or deleted messages, so your team can be held accountable. This is critical in healthcare — it permits compliance audits and guarantees dispute resolution by having an open book on communications.

3. Secure file sharing

You don’t simply text. Sharing confidential reports — ranging from test results to imaging studies — requires the same level of security. A good app protects these documents both in transit and in storage so sensitive patient data can’t be compromised. With the right secure patient messaging solution, file sharing is effortless and hassle-free.

4. Access control

Not everyone needs to read all messages. Access control enables you to restrict who views sensitive information by role or team. Either administrative staff or ward staff, only authorized users get access. This minimizes risk and keeps patient data safe within your organisation.

5. Message expiration

And the best defense at other times is to make messages self-destruct. Expiring messages will remove texts automatically after a set time period, reducing the chances of sensitive information lingering on forever. It’s a soft self-destruct button – less theatrics, more data safety.

6. Multi-device syncing

Caregiving teams are in constant transit. Multi-device syncing allows staff to view messages securely on laptops, tablets, or smartphones. Flexibility can’t be at the expense of security, though — all devices need to be encrypted and protected so patient information remains safe and confidential everywhere.

7. User-friendly interface

If your employees struggle with using the app, compliance will suffer. A HIPAA compliant messaging application will have to balance best-of-breed security with ease of use. From administrators to clinicians, the application needs to be easy enough to use so that all of your employees can securely communicate without frustration or delay.

In-depth comparison of mobile & online messaging apps

Now that we’ve covered the must-have features for a HIPAA-compliant text messaging app, it’s time to explore some of the best options available. With so many apps on the market, choosing the right one can feel like a puzzle. But don’t worry we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. Below is a list of some trusted HIPAA-compliant Slack alternatives, packing all the essential features you need to stay compliant and efficient. Whether you manage a healthcare practice or a team dealing with sensitive information, these apps will make your communication secure and seamless.

Let’s dive deeper into the top options for HIPAA-compliant texting:

Chanty

Chanty is a reliable, versatile communication platform designed for healthcare professionals and life sciences teams. From running an active hospital department to coordinating care in a private practice, or facilitating cross-team collaboration, Chanty makes your communication easy, compliant, and rock-solid.

As a HIPAA-compliant messaging app — also supporting GDPR and DLP standards — Chanty enables secure communication while helping teams reduce friction and stay focused on care. From real-time messaging to company-wide announcements and task coordination, everything stays in one place and protected by default.

You can use Chanty as a centralized hub for secure hospital communication systems, supporting cross-functional teams, admin staff, and clinicians who need clarity and speed.

What you can have:

• Private and secure chat with end-to-end encryption and access controls — fully HIPAA-compliant.
• Company-wide Announcements to send non-editable, reply-free alerts that everyone sees without distraction.
• Custom user permissions to control visibility of sensitive files and conversations.
• Mobile and desktop support for secure access across locations and shifts.
• Secure file sharing for lab results, imaging scans, and care plans — shared only with the right people.
• IP allow listing on Business Plan to restrict platform access to trusted clinical networks.
• Built-in task management with a visual Kanban board for tracking critical care workflows.
• Simple integrations with scheduling tools, file storage, and third-party platforms.

Pros:

• Clean, intuitive interface that works for doctors, nurses, admin staff, and IT teams alike.
• Full support for HIPAA, GDPR, and DLP, with no extra configuration needed.
• Built for secure patient messaging solutions and internal collaboration.
• Real-time coordination across shifts, departments, and remote locations.
• Cost-effective and scalable — even for smaller teams or multi-location healthcare organizations.

Cons:

• No native integration with EHR/EMR systems
• Not designed for clinical documentation or direct patient record handling.
• No dedicated telehealth module, though video calling is available.
  

Chanty is constantly evolving with the needs of healthcare teams. We’re open to feedback, integration opportunities, and real-world insights — because great tools should adapt to the people who use them.

Pricing:

• Free plan for small teams — includes core messaging, limited integrations, and team collaboration.
• Business plan: $3 per user/month (billed annually) — includes admin controls, advanced security, and full functionality.
• Enterprise plan: Special pricing for larger businesses with particular compliance or infrastructure requirements.

Klara

Klara’s platform is built to help healthcare professionals improve their communication with patients. From appointment scheduling to treatment follow-up, Klara keeps everything in one secure and HIPAA-compliant place perfect for the busy medical practice.

What you can do:

• Message patients and health care staff securely, knowing everything is encrypted to protect sensitive health information.
• Send real-time notifications to inform the patients about rescheduling or canceling of appointments and even any kind of emergency notifications. 
• Automate patient reminders and follow-ups, saving your staff time in routine communications.
• Share medical records, test results, and other sensitive files securely with patients or colleagues.
• Easily integrate Klara with your current EHR system, so you won’t have to toggle between systems.

Pros:

• The platform is intuitive – meaning you won’t spend hours figuring out how to use it. It’s built for HIPAA compliance, thus you can rest assured with the security of your patient data. 
• Integrating into your healthcare systems streamlines your workflow. 

Cons:

• Some of the advanced features require setup support.
• No free version available.

Pricing:

Klara’s pricing starts at $250 per month per provider, which includes secure messaging, patient outreach, and telemedicine capabilities. They also offer custom plans for larger organizations with additional needs.

MessageDesk

MessageDesk is a HIPAA-compliant Slack alternative built for healthcare providers. From appointment scheduling to reminders, MessageDesk enables health care organizations to connect securely with patients and staff members easily.

What you can do:

• Send encrypted text messages to your patients and staff without any possible breaches in privacy.
• Automate appointment reminders; make sure patients don’t miss their visit, and you won’t have to follow up with them personally.
• Share lab results and medical documents with patients in a secure and fast manner, always keeping information private. 
• Receive real-time notifications of appointments or urgent updates to keep one informed.
•  Manage patient communications from one platform and avoid the use of multiple tools. 

Pros: 

• High-level security with HIPAA compliance and end-to-end encryption. 
• Real-time notifications regarding important updates. 
• The automation feature saves time by reducing manual outreach. 

Cons: 

• A few users find the system to be less customizable.
• Pricing for larger organizations is higher.

Pricing:

MessageDesk provides a Starter plan at $14 per user per month, which includes basic messaging features. The Pro plan is available at $29 per user per month, offering advanced features like automation and integrations.

TigerConnect

TigerConnect provides a family of communication solutions for healthcare, each with security and ease of integration in mind. It’s designed to help providers collaborate without compromise, from text messaging to video calls.

What you can do:

• Send and receive encrypted messages. Every message sent is secure and HIPAA-compliant.
• Make protected voice and video calls to staff or patients anywhere.
• Send urgent messages with real-time notifications, letting your team take quicker action in life and death situations. 
• Integrates seamlessly with existing healthcare systems such as EHR or other management software. 
• Use analytics to track message volumes and organizational communication efficiency.

Pros:

• Robust security: cloud-native integrations
• Multi-tool communicator: text up to video calls
• Enhances team collaboration by streamlining workflows

Cons:

• Advanced functionality may require additional training.
• Can be pricey for smaller healthcare practices.

Pricing:

TigerConnect provides customized pricing plans according to usage and team size.

Textedly

Textedly is a simple SMS messaging service that provides HIPAA-compliant texting for therapists and other healthcare professionals. It is designed to help healthcare teams stay in contact with patients and staff in an efficient manner while following strict security standards.

What you can do:

• Send encrypted text messages to patients, ensuring their information is encrypted and protected.
• Set up automated appointment reminders and follow-ups to streamline patient communication and reduce manual work.
• Share vital documents or updates with patients in a secure, easily accessible manner.
• Create message campaigns for large patient bases on major health tips, reminders, or promotions.
•  Leverage analytics to further refine communication methods by monitoring the delivery and engagement of messages.

Pros:

• Intuitive messaging for healthcare teams in simple terms.
• Compliant with HIPAA standards to ensure patient data remains private and fully protected.
• Cost-effective and easy to integrate into existing workflows.

Cons:

• The basic features cannot satisfy large and complex health teams.
• Limited customization options.

Pricing:

Textedly offers flexible pricing to fit various needs. The Basic Plan starts at $26 per month and includes 600 messages and 1 custom keyword. For larger needs, the Bronze Plan is $38 per month, with 1,200 messages and 1 keyword. You can add extra messages in blocks of 500 for $25 or additional keywords for $5 per month. Plans come with unlimited contacts, picture messaging, free incoming messages, and a dedicated toll-free or 10DLC number.

HelloHealth

HelloHealth is a patient communication platform leveraging HIPAA-compliant text messaging. HelloHealth puts the power of relationships at the center of medical practices, keeping all patient communications safe and organized.

What you can do:

• Send secure, encrypted messages to patients for appointment reminders, test results, and general communication.
• Automate patient communications so your staff saves time, yet patients will not miss any information.
• Share patient medical records, laboratory results, and forms securely.
• Real-time text alerts will keep your patients up-to-date on urgent health information, schedule changes, or health concerns.
•  HelloHealth will further streamline your workflow by integrating with your existing practice management systems.

Pros:

• Clear-cut, straightforward solution for small to medium-sized healthcare practices.
• Encrypted messaging keeps patient communications private and HIPAA-compliant.
• Automation tools save time and prevent staff burnout.

Cons

• May not offer all the functionality bigger practices need.
• Integrations with third-party services could be more diverse.

Pricing:

Hello Health caters to healthcare practices with customizable pricing. The Telehealth Plan costs $49 per month, offering HIPAA-compliant telehealth, visit notes, e-prescribing, and a patient portal. Their Standard Plan includes EHR, practice management tools, and optional telehealth services. Pricing for the Standard Plan varies based on the practice’s needs, making it a tailored solution for medical professionals.

RocketChat

Rocket Chat is an open-source team collaboration platform that can be implemented for use in a HIPAA-compliant way. It is perfect for healthcare teams looking for a customizable solution that will improve communication without compromising security and privacy.

What you can do:

• Share encrypted messages between colleagues, keeping all sensitive information confidential.
• Create your workspace and channels for organizing teams based on a department or project.
• Secure video calls and file sharing among team members in your organization will never compromise patients’ privacy.
• Centralize your communications using Rocket Chat by integrating it into the existing health software to facilitate the workflow.
• Monitoring Activity: Observe activity using real detailed analytics to trace if communications are really effective while also observing HIPAA. 

Pros:

• Its open-source in nature, thus it’s tailored to your specific needs.
• Strong security features, including end-to-end encryption.
• Large health care teams prefer this due to flexibility and scaling.

Cons:

• Geared more toward a technical setup and management compared to out-of-the-box.
• Limited customer support for self-hosted versions.

Pricing:

Rocket Chat is available in both free and paid-for plans. Pro Plan starting at $7 per user per month, offering advanced features like omnichannel communication, analytics, and enterprise integrations. The Enterprise Plan is priced at $35 per user per month, which includes enhanced security and dedicated support.

Notifyd

Notifyd is a HIPAA-compliant messaging service to enhance patient communication. With real-time alerts and text messaging, Notifyd ensures that no critical message or patient update ever slips through the cracks.

What you can do:

• Send encrypted messages to patients and staff; all correspondences meet HIPAA standards.
• Automate appointment reminders and notifications to reduce missed appointments and conserve staff’s time.
• Receive immediate notifications of urgent patient updates to quickly respond with your team to changing conditions. 
• Safely share files and sensitive documents with patients or colleagues.
• Effective analytics provide the insights that prove your messages are reaching and engaging the right people at the right time.

Pros:

• Real-time messaging keeps your team in the know and able to respond promptly.
• HIPAA-compliant to always keep patient data secure.
• Easy setup and very user-friendly interface.

Cons:

• There is limited customization.
• Might not be as robust for large healthcare organizations who have bigger needs.

Pricing:

Notifyd offers a free trial to explore its features. Paid plans start at $500 per branch per month or $5,400 per branch per year (with 10% savings). The plan includes unlimited users, notifications, and HIPAA-compliant integration with EMR/EHR systems.

Brosix

Brosix is a privacy-focused collaboration platform built for healthcare teams, offering HIPAA-compliant messaging and task management to streamline workflows.

What you can do:

• Communicate confidently within your healthcare team while ensuring patient confidentiality.
• Share sensitive documents and images with team members in a protected environment.
• Host remote meetings while maintaining compliance with healthcare privacy regulations.
• Assign tasks and track progress to enhance workflow and project management.
• Control access levels based on team members’ roles to ensure security and promote collaboration.

Pros:

• HIPAA-compliant messaging ensures privacy for team communication.
• Task management features improve team workflow efficiency.
• Secure document sharing helps maintain patient confidentiality.

Cons:

• More suitable for larger teams with complex communication needs.
• May not be necessary for smaller practices that focus primarily on patient communication.

Pricing:

Brosix offers three pricing plans. The Startup plan is free for up to 3 users, with basic features like private team networks and text chat. The Business plan is $4 per user per month (or $5 if billed monthly) and adds features like video chat, screen sharing, and chat rooms. The Premium plan is $6 per user per month (or $8 if billed monthly), offering advanced controls, multiple admins, and enhanced security.

OnPage

OnPage is a critical alert and escalation platform built for healthcare teams that need real-time notifications for urgent communications. Whether it’s a hospital emergency room or urgent care, OnPage ensures critical alerts reach the right staff immediately.

What you can do:

• Receive real-time critical alert notifications to stay informed about urgent situations.
• Implement escalation protocols for time-sensitive communications.
• Get audio alerts that cannot be missed to ensure immediate attention.
• Integrate OnPage seamlessly with your existing workflows and systems.
• Use the user-friendly mobile app interface for easy communication management.

Pros:

• Real-time alerts and audio notifications ensure no message is missed.
• Works seamlessly with existing healthcare workflows and systems.
• Ideal for high-pressure environments like emergency departments and urgent care.

Cons:

• Might be too feature-heavy for practices that don’t deal with many urgent cases.
• Higher pricing tiers for more features could be unnecessary for smaller teams.

Pricing:

OnPage offers several pricing tiers ranging from $13.99 to $28.99 per user per month, depending on the features selected. A free trial is also available for potential users to evaluate the service before committing.

Blaze

Blaze is a HIPAA-compliant healthcare communication solution that allows providers to build custom apps without writing code. From protected messaging to automated follow-ups, Blaze simplifies patient communication and workflow management.

What you can do:

• Build a custom healthcare messaging app tailored to your needs, no coding required.
• Ensure HIPAA compliance with built-in security features.
• Set up secure messaging between staff members and streamline communication.
• Automate patient appointment scheduling, reminders, and check-ins.
• Integrate Blaze with your existing healthcare systems and databases.
• Track patient data access automatically with built-in security logs.

Pros:

• Customizable app creation without the need for developers.
• Built-in HIPAA compliance and top-notch security features.
• Automation of patient scheduling and follow-ups saves time.
• Easy integration with existing systems.

Cons:

• Requires a learning curve for creating custom apps.
• Pricing may be higher for organizations with complex needs.

Pricing:

Blaze offers two pricing plans. The Internal Plan is priced at $500 per month, providing unlimited internal users, apps, data storage, multi-source data syncing, robust data security, and role-based permissions, but does not include external user access. The Enterprise Plan has custom pricing and includes all the features of the Internal Plan, plus custom APIs, branding, advanced user management, public web applications, and HIPAA compliance for organizations with complex security requirements and external user needs.

Solutionreach

Solutionreach is a secure HIPAA-compliant patient communication platform designed for healthcare providers. It offers a variety of tools to streamline patient engagement, improve communication, and enhance workflow efficiency, all while ensuring privacy and security.

What you can do:

• Send HIPAA-compliant text messages, appointment reminders, and confirmations to patients, ensuring they stay informed.
• Automate patient follow-ups, reminders, and surveys to improve engagement without manual outreach.
• Share lab results, medical records, and important updates directly with patients.
• Improve patient satisfaction with personalized messages and communications.
• Manage all patient communications through a single platform, reducing the need for multiple tools.

Pros:

• Full HIPAA compliance with encryption.
• Automation features save time and enhance patient follow-up processes.
• Streamlined communications across a single platform for both patients and staff.
• Personalized patient communications help increase satisfaction.

Cons:

• Some users find the platform’s interface to be complex at times.
• Pricing can be high for smaller practices or those with limited resources.

Pricing:

Solutionreach offers customized pricing based on the size and needs of the healthcare organization. Pricing varies depending on features and the number of users.

OhMD

OhMD is a HIPAA-compliant healthcare communication platform that enables secure texting and video communication with both patients and healthcare teams. It seamlessly integrates with EHR systems to streamline workflows and enhance patient care.

What you can do:

• Send text messages and multimedia content to patients and staff without compromising privacy.
• Schedule and conduct HIPAA-compliant video calls for consultations and follow-ups.
• Automate appointment reminders, follow-ups, and health check-ins to keep patients informed.
• Easily integrate with your existing Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems for better data synchronization.
• Maintain patient confidentiality with end-to-end encryption and secure data handling.

Pros:

• Full HIPAA compliance and end-to-end encryption.
• Easy integration with EHR systems to centralize patient data.
• Streamlined communication between healthcare providers and patients.
• Automates follow-up tasks, saving time and reducing manual workload.

Cons:

• Limited customization options in certain features.
• Some users report occasional issues with user interface navigation.

Pricing:

OhMD offers customized pricing based on the size and needs of the healthcare organization.

Updox

Updox is a HIPAA-compliant communication platform designed for healthcare practices to enhance patient engagement and streamline workflows. It offers secure messaging, telehealth services, and electronic forms, helping medical professionals connect efficiently with patients and staff.

What you can do:

• Send text messages to patients and staff, maintaining compliance with HIPAA regulations.
• Conduct telehealth video appointments to provide virtual care without compromising security.
• Collect patient information using electronic forms, reducing paperwork and manual data entry.
• Automate appointment reminders, follow-ups, and confirmations to improve patient attendance.
• Integrate with EHR systems to keep patient data up to date and easily accessible.

Pros:

• Comprehensive patient communication with secure messaging and telehealth.
• Reduces administrative workload with electronic forms and automated reminders.
• Seamless integration with major EHR systems.
• Improves patient engagement with easy-to-use communication tools.

Cons:

• Some users report occasional glitches with telehealth video calls.
• Pricing may be higher for small practices.

Pricing:

Updox offers customized pricing based on the size and needs of the practice. The base plan typically starts around $150 per month for secure messaging and telehealth features, with higher-tier plans available for additional functionalities and integrations.

Doxy.me

Doxy.me is a telemedicine platform designed for secure video conferencing and messaging with patients. It offers a no-download, browser-based experience, making it easy for healthcare professionals to connect with patients without the need for additional software. Doxy.me ensures full HIPAA compliance and encryption to protect patient data during virtual consultations.

What you can do:

• Conduct secure, HIPAA-compliant video consultations with patients, without the need for downloads or special software.
• Send encrypted text messages to patients to confirm appointments or provide follow-up information.
• Use simple, customizable virtual waiting rooms to manage patient flow before appointments.
• Ensure patient confidentiality with end-to-end encryption for all communications.

Pros:

• Browser-based, no software installation required.
• HIPAA-compliant with encrypted communication.
• Simple, user-friendly interface for both patients and providers.

Cons:

• Limited customization options for the platform.
• Free plan has basic features, while advanced tools require a paid subscription.

Pricing:
Doxy.me offers a free plan with essential video calling features. The Professional plan costs $35 per month per provider, including branding options and HD video. The Clinic plan starts at $50 per month per provider, with additional features like group calling and room management.

Final HIPAA Texting Rules

When utilizing text messaging in healthcare, it’s essential to stay compliant with HIPAA regulations to protect sensitive patient information. Here are key tips to ensure your communication remains protected and HIPAA-compliant:

1. Encrypt everything
   Always opt for HIPAA-compliant texting platforms that provide end-to-end encryption. This ensures that patient data is transmitted safely and guarded against unauthorized access, which is especially crucial in telehealth and remote communication scenarios.
2. Obtain consent before sending texts
   Before sending any text messages to patients, ensure you have obtained written consent for text communication. This establishes clear consent and helps maintain transparency, ensuring compliance with HIPAA’s stringent privacy requirements for patient data.
3. Limit the content of texts
   Avoid sending sensitive personal health information (PHI) via text unless absolutely necessary. Use HIPAA-compliant chat platforms primarily for appointment reminders, administrative messages, or general communication, and keep medical details out of the text body when possible.
4. Control access to devices and data
   Apply strict access controls to limit who can send, receive, or access patient messages. Role-based permissions ensure that only authorized personnel can handle PHI. This is vital for HIPAA-compliant texting solutions where patient information is involved.
5. Password protect devices
   Ensure that all devices used for sending or receiving HIPAA-compliant text messages are password-protected and encrypted. This helps prevent unauthorized access to patient information on mobile devices or within compliant chat applications.
6. Implement two-factor authentication (2FA)
   Use two-factor authentication for all users accessing your HIPAA-compliant texting platform. This added layer of security helps protect sensitive data, even if someone’s login credentials are compromised, ensuring compliance with HIPAA standards.
7. Audit communication logs regularly
   Conduct regular audits of messaging logs to track who accessed patient data and when. HIPAA-compliant chat apps should have audit logging features that are essential for monitoring compliance and identifying potential breaches.
8. Create data retention and deletion policies
   Define clear data retention policies for HIPAA-compliant texting and chat platforms. Specify how long patient information will be stored, and make sure that outdated or unnecessary messages are securely deleted, minimizing the risk of a data breach.
9. Provide employee training
   Even with the best HIPAA-compliant tools, your team’s adherence to protocols is essential for protecting patient information. Regular training ensures staff understands HIPAA guidelines and how to use compliant messaging tools, such as HIPAA-compliant Slack alternatives, effectively.

By following these HIPAA texting rules, you can ensure your messaging practices stay secure and compliant while supporting effective communication in healthcare. And if you’re tired of juggling fragmented tools, delayed responses, or worrying whether your messages are truly protected, Chanty offers a different kind of experience.

It’s a HIPAA-compliant messaging app built to bring clarity and calm into the everyday chaos of healthcare communication — helping your team move faster, stay in sync, and protect what matters most.

Book a demo today and see how secure, seamless communication can feel like one less thing to worry about.