[NCASAUmp]

Originally Posted by Steve M

That's probably not an accurate statement.
If, as a medical pro, you are involved in his care, you're subject to HIPAA.
If you're a friend, who has been told something, you are not subject to HIPAA.
In general, I'm with Mike - HIPAA is an overreaction to something that was very wrong. But it has had a major impact on the increases in the cost of health care - and none of us who regularly deal with HIPAA see it as more worthwhile than a hemmeroid

You should see the impact HIPAA has had on IT. ALL sorts of restrictions and requirements on system architecture. You practically have to have a lawyer looking over your shoulder at all times in order to ensure your compliance.