How does GDPR and Privacy Laws apply in the offline world?

I recently visited a healthcare practice, having been to the GP a few times before this. On this particular visit, I found myself waiting in line to speak with the receptionist.
As I stood there, another patient was ahead of me, and the receptionist proceeded to ask her for personal information, starting with her name, followed by her date of birth, and then her address.
To my surprise, I could hear every detail of their conversation, and it struck me …

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