Hippa is very misunderstood by doctors offices and hospitals. I have been told that i would have to sign a release to authorize myself to receive copies of my tests at a number of doctors offices. In 2003 when the law had first taken effect i went myself to the emergency room of North Shore Hospital for chronic asthma for 5 weeks 24/7. They admitted me and i asked them to call my wife and tell her and they said they couldnt do that under Hippa. I said i'll sign something , they still said no so i just grabbed the phone off the desk and called myself.