This is why they send out privacy notices in very small print that nobody has a tendency to read so they are within their legal boundaries when selling medical data base information.  BD

Other databases, such as Medical Marketing Service (MMS) sell specialized lists that include cross-referenced information on people with asthma, arthritis, cancer and just about any other healthcare affliction you can think of.

The Medical Information Bureau (MIB) gets its information from 600 member companies that send them information obtained “as part of their application underwriting process for life, health, disability, or long-term care insurance.”

That information can include “medical conditions represented by one or more of about 230 codes. ... (such as) height and weight, blood pressure, ECG readings, and laboratory test results,” (as well as) “information that could impact health or longevity including an adverse driving record, participation in hazardous sports, or aviation activity.”

Unfortunately, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), it is legal and yes, they can, and do sell their customers’ information — although some may choose not to. Because this is a consumer issue that is a growing concern when it comes to identity theft, the FDIC has special pages dedicated to consumer protection on its Web site at www.fdic.gov/consumers/consumer/news/index.html.
 
 “That’s why they have to send out those ‘privacy notices."

Sorry, folks, but it’s true: You are for sale

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