When creating strong healthcare data security measures, physical safeguards serve as a primary line of defense from potential threats, according to an article on the HealthITSecurity website.
Physical safeguards can include facility access controls, workstation use, workstation security, and device and media controls.
For instance, the HIPAA Privacy Rule requires that paper patient information disposal include burning, shredding, pulping, or pulverizing the records until they are unreadable.
Healthcare facilities also need to ensure facility security to protect from data thieves. Stealing health information storage devices allows thieves to access a large amount of that sensitive data in one place.
5 Reasons Engineering is the Edge in Healthcare Master Planning
Building an AI-Ready Healthcare Facility 
Family Medical Associates of Raleigh Reports April 2026 Data Breach
Every Detail Matters: A Patient's Story of Healing, Hope and Healthcare Facilities
Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center Tops Off New 11-Story Tower