[TNdandelion]

Where I live, I have to give the hospital permission to release that information. Even if I visit the ER, they ask me if I want the hospital to let anyone know if I'm there should they receive phone calls.

It's not automatic.

[Red Steel]

OK, but HIPAA is certainly a very flawed law as a quick look around the net confirms.

Some Criminals Using HIPAA Laws to Hide from Authorities

IMO, Obama also falls under this category.