HIPPA after death

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Specializes in BNAT instructor, ICU, Hospice,triage.

It seems after a patient is dead HIPPA would end? Or does it continue forever?

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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.

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

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Specializes in LTC, Psych, Hospice.

My understanding is that it continues forever.

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Specializes in psych, addictions, hospice, education.

Logically, why would it ever end?

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Specializes in LTC, Psych, Hospice.

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.

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Specializes in Hospice / Ambulatory Clinic.

Unless they asked permission first?

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Or the obituary itself listed the hospice.

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Specializes in ER.

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.

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