Healthcare providers face unique challenges when processing patient payments, requiring solutions that balance security, compliance, and efficiency. HIPAA-compliant payment processors use encryption, tokenization, and secure data storage to keep patient information safe. While financial institutions and entities processing payments on their behalf are exempt from complying with the HIPAA Administrative Simplification Regulations, healthcare providers must still ensure their payment processing maintains the highest security standards to protect patient data and maintain trust.
What is HIPAA compliant credit card processing?
HIPAA compliant credit card processing refers to payment processing systems and services that meet the security and privacy requirements necessary to safely handle credit card transactions in healthcare environments while protecting patient health information.
Understanding HIPAA and Payment Processing
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) establishes strict rules for protecting patient health information, known as Protected Health Information (PHI). While credit card processors and payment networks are generally not directly subject to HIPAA regulations as they are considered financial institutions, healthcare providers must ensure their payment processing methods don’t compromise patient data security.
Key Components of HIPAA Compliant Credit Card Processing
Data Encryption and Tokenization HIPAA compliant processors use advanced encryption methods to protect sensitive data during transmission and storage. Tokenization replaces actual credit card numbers with unique tokens, ensuring that even if data is intercepted, it cannot be used maliciously.
Business Associate Agreements (BAAs) Many payment processors offer Business Associate Agreements to healthcare providers. While not always legally required for payment processing, BAAs demonstrate the processor’s commitment to maintaining HIPAA-level security standards and provide additional legal protection.
Secure Payment Environments These systems maintain strict access controls, audit trails, and monitoring systems to ensure that patient payment information is only accessible to authorized personnel and is handled according to healthcare security standards.
Security Features Required
- End-to-end encryption for all transaction data
- PCI DSS compliance for credit card data protection
- Secure data transmission protocols
- Access controls and user authentication
- Audit logging and monitoring capabilities
- Data backup and recovery procedures
Why Healthcare Providers Need It
Healthcare practices handle sensitive patient information alongside payment data. HIPAA compliant credit card processing ensures that payment transactions don’t create vulnerabilities that could expose patient health information or compromise the practice’s overall security posture.
The goal is to maintain patient trust while efficiently processing payments, ensuring that financial transactions support rather than undermine the healthcare provider’s commitment to patient privacy and data security.
13 HIPAA Compliant Credit Card Processing in 2025
In this article you can find out the best HIPAA Compliant Credit Card Processing list below;
1. Square
Square has established itself as a leading payment processor for healthcare practices, offering comprehensive HIPAA compliant credit card processing solutions. The platform combines user-friendly interfaces with robust security measures, making it an attractive choice for medical practices of all sizes. Square’s healthcare-focused features include appointment scheduling, patient management tools, and seamless integration with existing practice management systems.
The platform provides end-to-end encryption for all transactions and offers Business Associate Agreements (BAAs) to healthcare providers, ensuring compliance with HIPAA regulations. Square’s point-of-sale systems are designed specifically for healthcare environments, featuring contactless payment options and secure patient data handling. The company’s transparent pricing structure and absence of long-term contracts make it particularly appealing to smaller practices looking to establish reliable payment processing without significant upfront investments.
Square’s mobile payment solutions enable healthcare providers to accept payments anywhere within their facility, from waiting rooms to patient bedside. The platform’s reporting and analytics tools help practices track payment trends, identify outstanding balances, and streamline their revenue cycle management processes.
Key Features:
- Business Associate Agreement (BAA) available
- End-to-end encryption and tokenization
- Integrated appointment scheduling
- Mobile payment processing
- Transparent pricing structure
- No long-term contracts required
Pros:
- User-friendly interface suitable for all staff levels
- Comprehensive healthcare practice management tools
- Strong security measures with HIPAA compliance
- Flexible payment options including contactless payments
- Excellent customer support and training resources
Cons:
- Transaction fees can be higher than some competitors
- Limited customization options for larger practices
- May not integrate with all existing practice management systems
2. GoCardless
GoCardless specializes in bank-to-bank payments and direct debits, offering a unique approach to HIPAA compliant credit card processing for healthcare providers. The platform excels in recurring payment management, making it ideal for practices with subscription-based services or ongoing treatment plans. GoCardless processes payments directly from patients’ bank accounts, reducing transaction fees and improving payment success rates compared to traditional credit card processing.
The platform’s automated payment collection system significantly reduces administrative burden for healthcare practices, allowing staff to focus on patient care rather than payment follow-up. GoCardless provides detailed payment tracking and reporting, enabling practices to maintain accurate financial records and improve cash flow predictability. The system’s failure management tools automatically retry failed payments and provide clear communication to patients about payment issues.
GoCardless maintains strict security standards with bank-level encryption and fraud protection measures. The platform’s API integration capabilities allow seamless connection with existing practice management software, ensuring smooth workflow integration without disrupting established processes.
Key Features:
- Direct bank account payments
- Automated recurring payment collection
- Advanced failure management system
- API integration capabilities
- Multi-currency support
- Detailed reporting and analytics
Pros:
- Lower transaction fees compared to credit card processing
- High payment success rates for recurring transactions
- Excellent automation reduces administrative workload
- Strong international payment capabilities
- Robust fraud protection measures
Cons:
- Limited to bank account payments only
- Longer processing times compared to instant card payments
- May not be suitable for one-time payment scenarios
- Patient setup process can be more complex
3. PaymentCloud
PaymentCloud positions itself as a high-risk payment processor, making it particularly valuable for specialized healthcare practices and telemedicine providers. The platform offers comprehensive HIPAA compliant credit card processing solutions with advanced fraud protection and risk management tools. PaymentCloud’s expertise in high-risk industries ensures that healthcare providers with unique payment processing needs can find suitable solutions.
The platform provides customized payment processing solutions tailored to specific healthcare specialties, including mental health practices, cosmetic surgery, and alternative medicine providers. PaymentCloud’s underwriting process is designed to approve applications that other processors might decline, making it an excellent option for practices with challenging payment processing histories or unique business models.
PaymentCloud offers multiple payment gateway options, allowing practices to choose the solution that best fits their workflow and patient needs. The platform’s chargeback protection services help healthcare providers manage disputes effectively, protecting their revenue and maintaining positive relationships with payment networks.
Key Features:
- High-risk payment processing expertise
- Customized solutions for healthcare specialties
- Multiple payment gateway options
- Chargeback protection services
- 24/7 customer support
- Flexible underwriting process
Pros:
- Accepts high-risk healthcare businesses
- Specialized expertise in healthcare payment processing
- Comprehensive fraud protection measures
- Flexible contract terms and pricing options
- Strong customer support availability
Cons:
- Higher fees compared to traditional processors
- More complex application and approval process
- May require additional documentation for compliance
- Limited integration options with some practice management systems
4. Stax
Stax offers subscription-based payment processing with a focus on transparent pricing and comprehensive healthcare solutions. Stax’s payment solutions are HIPAA-compliant, allowing healthcare providers to accept various forms of payment while keeping patient data secure without the need for a BAA. The platform’s membership model eliminates many traditional payment processing fees, making it cost-effective for practices with high transaction volumes.
The platform provides advanced reporting and analytics tools that help healthcare practices understand their payment patterns and optimize their revenue cycle management. Stax’s virtual terminal capabilities enable secure payment processing over the phone, which is particularly valuable for telemedicine and remote consultation services. The system’s recurring billing features support subscription-based healthcare services and ongoing treatment plans.
Stax emphasizes transparency in its pricing structure, providing clear information about all costs and fees associated with payment processing. The platform’s customer support team includes healthcare payment specialists who understand the unique challenges and requirements of medical practices.
Key Features:
- Subscription-based pricing model
- Virtual terminal for phone payments
- Advanced reporting and analytics
- Recurring billing capabilities
- Transparent pricing structure
- Healthcare-focused customer support
Pros:
- Cost-effective for high-volume practices
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Strong virtual payment processing capabilities
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics tools
- Specialized healthcare industry support
Cons:
- Monthly membership fees may not suit low-volume practices
- Limited customization options for specific workflows
- Requires commitment to subscription model
- May have learning curve for staff adoption
5. Payment Depot
Payment Depot operates on a membership-based model that can provide significant cost savings for healthcare practices with substantial transaction volumes. The platform offers comprehensive HIPAA compliant credit card processing with advanced security features and fraud protection. Payment Depot’s approach to pricing transparency helps healthcare providers understand their true payment processing costs and optimize their financial operations.
The platform provides multiple payment acceptance options, including in-person, online, and mobile payments, ensuring that healthcare practices can serve patients through various channels. Payment Depot’s integration capabilities allow seamless connection with popular practice management software, maintaining workflow efficiency while enhancing payment processing capabilities.
Payment Depot’s customer support team provides dedicated assistance for healthcare providers, helping with compliance questions and technical implementation. The platform’s reporting tools offer detailed insights into payment trends, helping practices identify opportunities for revenue optimization and improved patient payment experiences.
Key Features:
- Membership-based pricing model
- Multiple payment acceptance channels
- Practice management software integration
- Dedicated healthcare customer support
- Comprehensive fraud protection
- Detailed reporting and analytics
Pros:
- Significant cost savings for high-volume practices
- Transparent pricing with clear fee structures
- Multiple payment processing options available
- Strong integration capabilities with existing systems
- Dedicated healthcare industry support
Cons:
- Monthly membership fees may not benefit low-volume practices
- Requires minimum processing volume for optimal value
- Limited customization for specialized healthcare workflows
- Initial setup may require technical assistance
6. Helcim
Helcim offers transparent pricing and comprehensive payment processing solutions for healthcare providers. Helcim is also HIPAA-compliant by signing BAA with healthcare practices. Helcim allows merchants to use its invoicing and recurring billing management tools without any additional cost. However, it’s important to note that Helcim does not offer business associate agreements (BAAs) to protect PHI and is only HIPAA compliant in the sense that its credit card processing services fall outside the scope of HIPAA laws.
The platform provides integrated payment processing solutions that include point-of-sale systems, online payment gateways, and mobile payment options. Helcim’s pricing structure is based on interchange-plus pricing, providing transparency in fee calculations and helping healthcare providers understand their true payment processing costs.
Helcim’s customer support team provides assistance with implementation and ongoing support for healthcare providers. The platform’s reporting tools offer insights into payment trends and performance metrics, helping practices optimize their revenue cycle management processes.
Key Features:
- Transparent interchange-plus pricing
- Integrated payment processing solutions
- Free invoicing and recurring billing tools
- Multiple payment acceptance options
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics
- Responsive customer support
Pros:
- Transparent pricing structure with no hidden fees
- Comprehensive payment processing capabilities
- Free additional tools for billing and invoicing
- Strong customer support and service quality
- Flexible payment options for patients
Cons:
- Conflicting information about BAA availability
- May not be suitable for practices requiring strict HIPAA compliance
- Limited specialized healthcare features
- Potential confusion about compliance capabilities
7. Chase Payment Solutions
Chase Payment Solutions leverages the financial institution’s extensive resources to provide comprehensive payment processing services for healthcare providers. The platform offers HIPAA compliant credit card processing with advanced security features and fraud protection. Chase’s established reputation in financial services provides additional credibility and trust for healthcare practices and their patients.
The platform integrates seamlessly with Chase’s other business banking services, providing a comprehensive financial solution for healthcare practices. Chase Payment Solutions offers competitive rates and flexible pricing options, supported by the institution’s ability to provide customized solutions for different practice sizes and needs.
Chase Payment Solutions provides robust reporting and analytics tools that help healthcare providers track payment performance and optimize their revenue cycle management. The platform’s customer support includes dedicated healthcare specialists who understand the unique requirements and challenges of medical payment processing.
Key Features:
- Integration with Chase business banking services
- Advanced security and fraud protection
- Competitive rates and flexible pricing
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics
- Dedicated healthcare customer support
- Established financial institution backing
Pros:
- Strong financial institution reputation and backing
- Comprehensive integration with banking services
- Advanced security and fraud protection measures
- Competitive pricing and flexible terms
- Dedicated healthcare industry support
Cons:
- May require existing Chase banking relationship
- Potentially complex application and approval process
- Limited information about specific healthcare features
- May not suit all practice sizes equally well
8. Dharma Merchant Services
Dharma Merchant Services distinguishes itself through its commitment to ethical business practices and transparent pricing structures. The platform offers HIPAA compliant credit card processing with competitive rates and comprehensive security features. Dharma’s approach to customer service emphasizes building long-term relationships with healthcare providers and providing ongoing support for their payment processing needs.
The platform’s technology infrastructure includes advanced fraud detection and prevention systems that protect healthcare providers and their patients from payment-related security threats. Dharma Merchant Services offers flexible payment processing options, including in-person, online, and mobile payments, ensuring that healthcare practices can serve patients through multiple channels while maintaining security standards.
Dharma Merchant Services provides detailed reporting and analytics tools that help healthcare providers understand their payment processing performance and identify opportunities for revenue optimization. The platform’s customer support team includes specialists with experience in healthcare payment processing requirements and compliance considerations, ensuring that practices receive knowledgeable assistance when implementing and maintaining their payment processing systems.
Key Features:
- Ethical business practices and transparent pricing
- Advanced fraud detection and prevention
- Multiple payment processing channels
- Detailed reporting and analytics
- Specialized healthcare customer support
- Flexible contract terms and options
Pros:
- Strong commitment to ethical business practices
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Comprehensive fraud protection measures
- Multiple payment processing options available
- Dedicated healthcare industry expertise
Cons:
- May have higher standards for merchant approval
- Limited information about specific healthcare features
- Potential complexity in initial setup and configuration
- May not suit all practice sizes equally well
9. CreditCardProcessing.com – PaySafe
CreditCardProcessing.com offers tailored solutions for healthcare providers seeking comprehensive HIPAA compliant credit card processing services. The platform focuses on providing competitive rates and flexible terms specifically designed for medical practices. Their healthcare-specific features include patient payment portals, automated billing systems, and integration capabilities with electronic health record systems.
The platform’s security infrastructure includes advanced encryption, tokenization, and fraud detection systems that meet healthcare industry standards. CreditCardProcessing.com provides Business Associate Agreements to ensure HIPAA compliance and offers ongoing support for compliance maintenance. Their customer service team includes healthcare payment specialists who understand the unique requirements of medical practices.
CreditCardProcessing.com’s reporting and analytics tools provide valuable insights into payment patterns, helping healthcare providers optimize their revenue cycle management and improve patient payment experiences. The platform supports multiple payment types and offers flexible payment options to accommodate diverse patient needs.
Key Features:
- Healthcare-specific payment portals
- Electronic health record integration
- Business Associate Agreement availability
- Advanced fraud detection systems
- Flexible payment options
- Specialized healthcare customer support
Pros:
- Competitive rates for healthcare providers
- Comprehensive healthcare-focused features
- Strong security and compliance measures
- Flexible contract terms and pricing options
- Dedicated healthcare industry expertise
Cons:
- May require longer implementation timeline
- Limited information about specific pricing structures
- Potential complexity in setup and configuration
- May not suit all practice sizes equally well
10. Host Merchant Services
Host Merchant Services provides comprehensive payment processing solutions with a strong focus on healthcare compliance and security. The platform offers HIPAA compliant credit card processing with advanced fraud protection and risk management tools. Host Merchant Services emphasizes customer service and provides dedicated support for healthcare providers navigating payment processing requirements.
The platform’s payment gateway offers secure online payment processing with patient-friendly interfaces that enhance the payment experience while maintaining security standards. Host Merchant Services provides flexible pricing options and contract terms, allowing healthcare practices to choose arrangements that align with their operational needs and budget constraints.
Host Merchant Services offers comprehensive reporting tools that help healthcare providers track payment performance, identify trends, and optimize their revenue cycle management processes. The platform’s integration capabilities support connection with popular practice management systems, ensuring seamless workflow integration.
Key Features:
- Advanced fraud protection and risk management
- Secure online payment gateway
- Flexible pricing and contract options
- Comprehensive reporting tools
- Practice management system integration
- Dedicated healthcare customer support
Pros:
- Strong focus on fraud protection and security
- Flexible contract terms and pricing structures
- Comprehensive customer support services
- Good integration capabilities with existing systems
- Emphasis on healthcare industry compliance
Cons:
- May have higher fees compared to some competitors
- Potential complexity in initial setup process
- Limited information about specific healthcare features
- May require longer contract commitments
11. Leaders Merchant Services
Leaders Merchant Services specializes in providing payment processing solutions for various industries, including healthcare. The platform offers HIPAA compliant credit card processing with competitive rates and comprehensive security features. Leaders Merchant Services emphasizes customer relationships and provides personalized support for healthcare providers implementing payment processing solutions.
The platform’s technology infrastructure includes advanced encryption and tokenization systems that protect patient payment information throughout the transaction process. Leaders Merchant Services offers multiple payment acceptance options, including point-of-sale systems, online payment gateways, and mobile payment solutions, providing flexibility for different healthcare practice needs.
Leaders Merchant Services provides detailed reporting and analytics tools that help healthcare providers understand their payment processing performance and identify opportunities for improvement. The platform’s customer support team includes specialists familiar with healthcare payment processing requirements and compliance considerations.
Key Features:
- Competitive rates and fee structures
- Multiple payment acceptance options
- Advanced encryption and tokenization
- Detailed reporting and analytics
- Personalized customer support
- Healthcare compliance expertise
Pros:
- Competitive pricing for healthcare providers
- Comprehensive payment processing options
- Strong security and encryption measures
- Personalized customer service approach
- Experience with healthcare industry requirements
Cons:
- May require more detailed evaluation for specific needs
- Limited publicly available information about features
- Potential variation in service quality across regions
- May not offer specialized healthcare software integration
12. Luminous Payments
Luminous Payments specializes in providing payment processing solutions with a focus on transparency and customer service. The platform offers HIPAA compliant credit card processing with competitive rates and comprehensive security features. Luminous Payments emphasizes building long-term relationships with healthcare providers and providing ongoing support for their payment processing needs.
The platform’s technology infrastructure includes advanced fraud detection and prevention systems that protect healthcare providers and their patients from payment-related security threats. Luminous Payments offers flexible payment processing options, including in-person, online, and mobile payments, ensuring that healthcare practices can serve patients through multiple channels.
Luminous Payments provides detailed reporting and analytics tools that help healthcare providers understand their payment processing performance and identify opportunities for optimization. The platform’s customer support team includes specialists with experience in healthcare payment processing requirements and compliance considerations.
Key Features:
- Transparent pricing and fee structures
- Advanced fraud detection and prevention
- Multiple payment processing channels
- Detailed reporting and analytics
- Specialized healthcare customer support
- Flexible contract terms and options
Pros:
- Emphasis on transparency and customer service
- Comprehensive fraud protection measures
- Multiple payment processing options available
- Detailed performance reporting and analytics
- Experience with healthcare industry requirements
Cons:
- Limited publicly available information about specific features
- May require detailed evaluation for healthcare-specific needs
- Potential variation in service quality and features
- May not offer specialized healthcare software integration
13. Flagship Merchant Services
Flagship Merchant Services provides comprehensive payment processing solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of healthcare providers. The platform offers HIPAA compliant credit card processing with competitive rates and advanced security features. Flagship Merchant Services emphasizes customer service and provides personalized support for healthcare practices implementing payment processing solutions.
The platform’s payment processing infrastructure includes advanced encryption and tokenization systems that protect patient payment information throughout the transaction process. Flagship Merchant Services offers multiple payment acceptance options, including point-of-sale systems, online payment gateways, and mobile payment solutions, providing flexibility for different healthcare practice workflows.
Flagship Merchant Services provides comprehensive reporting and analytics tools that help healthcare providers track payment performance, identify trends, and optimize their revenue cycle management processes. The platform’s customer support team includes specialists familiar with healthcare payment processing requirements and compliance considerations.
Key Features:
- Competitive rates and fee structures
- Advanced encryption and tokenization
- Multiple payment acceptance options
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics
- Personalized customer support
- Healthcare compliance expertise
Pros:
- Competitive pricing for healthcare providers
- Comprehensive payment processing capabilities
- Strong security and encryption measures
- Personalized customer service approach
- Experience with healthcare industry requirements
Cons:
- Limited publicly available information about specific features
- May require detailed evaluation for healthcare-specific needs
- Potential complexity in implementation and setup
- May not offer specialized healthcare software integration
What is the Link Between Credit Card Processing and HIPAA?
The link between credit card processing and HIPAA exists in the intersection of financial data and healthcare environments, where patient privacy and payment security must work together to protect sensitive information.
Direct HIPAA Applicability
Payment Processors Are Generally Exempt Credit card processors and payment networks are typically classified as financial institutions under federal law, which means they are generally not directly subject to HIPAA regulations. The administrative simplification provisions of HIPAA do not apply to entities that process payments on behalf of financial institutions.
Healthcare Providers Remain Responsible While payment processors may be exempt, healthcare providers (covered entities under HIPAA) must ensure their payment processing methods don’t create vulnerabilities that could compromise Protected Health Information (PHI).
Where the Connection Occurs
Integrated Systems Many healthcare practices use integrated systems where payment processing is built into practice management software or electronic health record (EHR) systems. In these scenarios, payment data and PHI may be stored or processed together, creating direct HIPAA compliance requirements.
Patient Information Exposure During payment processing, patient names, appointment details, treatment information, or medical procedure codes might be transmitted alongside payment data. This creates a direct link to PHI that requires HIPAA-level protection.
Vendor Relationships Healthcare providers often require Business Associate Agreements (BAAs) with payment processors as an additional layer of protection, even when not legally mandated, to ensure consistent security standards across all vendor relationships.
Security Standards Overlap
Dual Compliance Requirements Healthcare payment processing must meet both:
- PCI DSS standards for credit card data protection
- HIPAA security standards for healthcare information protection
Shared Security Principles Both frameworks emphasize:
- Data encryption and secure transmission
- Access controls and user authentication
- Audit trails and monitoring
- Incident response procedures
- Regular security assessments
Practical Implications
Risk Management Healthcare providers must evaluate how payment processing integrates with their overall data security strategy. A breach in payment systems could potentially expose patient information, creating HIPAA violations even if the payment processor itself isn’t subject to HIPAA.
Vendor Selection Healthcare organizations often choose payment processors that offer HIPAA-level security measures and BAAs, not because they’re legally required, but because it demonstrates a commitment to healthcare-appropriate security standards.
Documentation and Policies Healthcare practices must document how their payment processing procedures protect patient information and ensure staff training covers both payment security and HIPAA compliance requirements.
The relationship between credit card processing and HIPAA ultimately centers on healthcare providers’ responsibility to maintain comprehensive data protection strategies that safeguard patient information across all operational aspects, including financial transactions.
Conclusion
Selecting the right HIPAA compliant credit card processing solution is crucial for healthcare providers seeking to balance security, compliance, and operational efficiency. The 13 solutions presented offer diverse approaches to healthcare payment processing, from comprehensive practice management integration to specialized high-risk processing capabilities. Each platform provides essential security features including encryption, tokenization, and fraud protection, while varying in their specific healthcare-focused features and pricing structures.
Healthcare providers should carefully evaluate their specific needs, including transaction volume, patient payment preferences, integration requirements with existing systems, and budget constraints when selecting a payment processor. The importance of Business Associate Agreements, transparent pricing, and dedicated healthcare customer support cannot be overstated in ensuring long-term success with any chosen solution.
As the healthcare industry continues to evolve with technological advances and changing patient expectations, these HIPAA compliant credit card processing solutions provide the foundation for secure, efficient, and patient-friendly payment experiences. The key to success lies in matching the right processor capabilities with individual practice requirements, ensuring that payment processing enhances rather than complicates the delivery of quality healthcare services. Regular evaluation and optimization of payment processing systems will help healthcare providers maintain compliance, improve patient satisfaction, and optimize their revenue cycle management in an increasingly competitive healthcare landscape.
