The healthcare facility

Mr. Rogers, a letter carrier for the US Postal Service, is being seen in the healthcare facility because he was bitten on the ankle by a Yorkshire terrier, and the ankle has become infected. Mr. Rogers’s provider and medical assistant are discussing the patient’s condition and history outside of the examination room. Mr. Edelman is heading toward the reception desk and overhears the entire conversation, including the somewhat embarrassing story of how Mr. Rogers lost a fingertip 8 years ago after offering a leftover chicken nugget to a cocker spaniel on his route. Have the provider and medical assistant violated the HIPAA Privacy Rule? Discuss.