Question Details:A nurse (who is a neighbor) revealed my confidential patient information to another neighbor. The contents of this information was highly personal and has caused much stress.
Such an action on her part was in violation of the principles of doctor-patient confidentiality, by which she is bound in her role as a nurse. As JMA says, it is also a violation of HIPPA laws which are very strict about these things. If you feel that the stress you endured as a result of this violation of your privacy rises to such a level as to merit damages, then you should consult with a lawyer in your locale to determine if you have a cause of action to pursue.

Many states have statutes regarding the violation of the HIPPA laws, as well as common law liability for failing to keep information confidential. I suggest that you write a letter to the hospital indicating that the nurse is disclosing private information about you and that it is a violation of the HIPPA laws and confidentiality rules rising to the level of intentional and/or negligent infliction of emotional distress as there is no basis for the nurse to your personal health info to other people. I suggest that you hire a lawyer. Most lawyers will meet with you for free the first time.

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