No information on a patient's condition may be released unless the name of the patient is provided by the requestor. University Health also requires a date of birth, to avoid misidentifying patients with similar names.

Under federal law, patients may choose to prevent any information about them to be released to the public or media, including their presence in the hospital. Information about patients who are minors can only be released with the written permission of a parent or legal guardian.

Patient conditions

Undetermined: Patient is awaiting assessment.

Good: Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious and comfortable, and indicators are excellent.

Fair: Vital signs are stable.

Serious: Vital signs may be unstable and not within normal limits. Patient is acutely ill. Indicators are questionable.

Critical: Vital signs are unstable and not within normal limits. Patient may be unconscious. Indicators are unfavorable.

University Health may disclose that a patient was “treated and released” or “treated and transferred.” However, federal law does not allow the release of the date the patient was discharged or where the patient went upon release without patient authorization.