Why do doctors need my address, date of birth etc? What happens if I lie about something? Like my name or address.

I ask all my patients to present photo identification.  You absolutely have the right to request that no marketing information be sent to you and we ask you to tell us your preferred method of contact.  My office staff and I take your privacy very seriously and so does the law.  The Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) does not allow your doctor or his or her staff to disclose information about you to anyone. This covers all medical practices.  To do so is a violation of federal law.  Please be honest about your identity with your doctor.  Talk to him or her about your concerns up front.  Gynecomastia is an extremely common concern among men and while I understand your need for discretion, it is nothing to be embarrassed about.

In this era of identity theft and insurance fraud, all patients must present photo id. This is required by all the hospitals as well, lest you think that you can "lie" about this. In my practice, if a patient isn't willing to disclose this basic information, then I would not be willing to operate on them. In terms of receipt of marketing materials, you can request that these not be sent. HIPAA protects against disclosure of information and all medical office staff should be trained on the seriousness of the issues involved.