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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hipaa-directory-clergy

Which hospital directory detail may go only to clergy, not to visitors who ask for a patient by name?

Religious affiliation.

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  1. Room location
  2. Religious affiliation ✔
  3. General condition

Why: A facility directory may list name, location, general condition and religion. Anyone asking by name can learn the first three; religious affiliation goes only to clergy.

Huh, didn't know that: Patients must be told about the directory and given the chance to limit or opt out of it.

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References

Answer: Religious affiliation. A facility directory may list name, location, general condition and religion. Anyone asking by name can learn the first three; religious affiliation goes only to clergy.

  1. 45 CFR 164.510 (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/subtitle-A/subchapter-C/part-164/subpart-E/section-164.510
    Except for religious affiliation, to other persons who ask for the individual by name.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. 45 CFR 164.510 (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/subtitle-A/subchapter-C/part-164/subpart-E/section-164.510
    condition described in general terms that does not communicate specific medical information
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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