HIPPA after death

My understanding is that it continues forever. An individual's interest in privacy accrues to his estate. I am a nurse attorney although, to be honest, have not researched this issue specifically. Other privacy interests (such as the attorney-client privilege) continue after death and are owned by the estate.

Still ain't nobdy's business. The family may disclose what they wish but not us.

My understanding is that it continues forever.

Logically, why would it ever end?

I was just looking at the obits in the paper online. There was a condolence from the hospice thanking the family for the opportunity to care for the pt. OOPS! big mistake.

Unless they asked permission first?

Or the obituary itself listed the hospice.

My father was a regional celebrity, had a radio show, did public appearances, wrote books etc. He was confused and sometimes inappropriate after his stroke. He subsequently died from the stroke. I would be thoroughly ticked off and wanting to sue for HIPPA violation if any of his problems were made public by any health care providers because someone thought privacy ended with death.

Just because you think privacy should end at death, there are many who don't.