I have found tha t health information varies a lot by the size of the place. When I worked at a library of 8 people - I knew a lot , just by being near and counting on them . now with over 50 people - I only know details if it happens to come up in a one on one conversation- and the people involved are talking about it.

There is a big difference in sharing what is happening with you, hoping to get information about possible assistance, and having someone else share it on your behalf.

Yes, this.

Beyond HIPAA legal issues, the idea that my co-workers would be pissed off that I didn't share detailed medical information with them squicks me to no end.

After Hubby's first heart attack, I went back to work and someone I rarely spoke to came up to offer sympathy. I feel kind of bad that instead of thanking her for her concern I snapped, "How did you find out about that? I didn't tell anyone!" I was outraged that something I'd told a supervisor to explain why I didn't come into work had apparently become gossip/interesting information. But then I've been told I need to work on being a "team player" more. Which apparently means "share personal information you generally don't tell blood family with people you occasionally see in the company bathroom."

I think I would feel differently if I worked in an office with a higher-than-usual familiarity with medical things, but here in tech support land, my husband's and my health does not fall under general interest.

Listen, I work in a medical setting. It's not a hospital, but I am surrounded by scientists and doctors and we develop drugs. That should make no difference. Medical information is supposed to be private.

Medical information is supposed to be private

Absolutely, unless it is voluntarily released by the subject.

So now seems like the perfect time to share a medical update!

Just left from visiting my mom, and she called to say they are releasing her, yay! There will be some follow-up; will need to manage some stuff going forward, but all told, she's doing great, getting the care she needs, and is in good spirits.

Thanks for all the ~ma.

I need to make some food now.

Jen, that's awesome news!

Thanks, javachick! We are all much relieved.

Everyone my mother works with knows precisely what her illness is. They may even know her prognosis. But she teaches at med school, and has a daughter teaching at the same university. And she's being treated by, amongst others, a former boss. I think all her co-workers came by her hospital room.

I, on the other hand, don't want to tell my co-workers if it's a cough or if it's a headache. It's not up for discussion. And even when I worked for UCLA Hospital, still not saying. Until, of course, one of my co-workers saw my name on the board, and came to talk to me in my hospital room. Since she was running the ER (and I'd help her get it up and running) that turned out *just* fine. Nobody else, though.

Working on temp computer. Or, well, not working. Since they changed my email password, I can't do jackshit. Someone, please call me back.

eta: Excellent news, Jen!

Jen, can you tell me more details about the specifics of your mother's case? Just kidding! Good news!