HIPAA compliance is a program, but engineers need a concrete build checklist for PHI systems.
Data minimization
Collect only what the workflow needs. Log IDs, not free-text clinical notes, wherever possible.
Encryption and access
Encrypt in transit and at rest, enforce least privilege, and audit access to sensitive records.
BAAs and vendors
Map every subprocessors that can touch PHI. Missing BAAs are a launch blocker, not paperwork trivia.