We may use your health information in, and disclose it from, our Patient Directory, or share it with family and friends involved in your care, without your written authorization. We will always give you an opportunity to object unless there is insufficient time because of a medical emergency (in which case we will discuss your preferences with you as soon as the emergency is over). We will follow your wishes unless we are required by law to do otherwise.
Patient Directory
If you do not object, we will include your name, your location in our facility, your general condition (e.g., fair, stable, critical, etc.), and your religious affiliation in our Patient Directory while you are a patient in the hospital or one of the facilities listed at the beginning of this notice. This directory information, except for your religious affiliation, may be released to people who ask for you by name. Your religious affiliation may be given to a member of the clergy, such as a priest or rabbi, even if he or she doesn't ask for you by name.
Family and Friends Involved in Your Care
If you do not object, we may share your health information with a family member, relative, or close personal friend who is involved in your care or payment for that care. We may also notify a family member, personal representative, or another person responsible for your care about your location and general condition here at the hospital, or in the unfortunate event of your death. In some cases, we may need to share your information with a disaster relief organization to help us notify these persons.
