Does HIPA still apply if your dead?
Yes. It is one of many laws protecting privacy.
If there is information about AIDS, HIV testing, genetics, substance abuse or mental health, then even more laws come into play.
If TMZ obtained info from a healthcare provider, that individual will probably go to prison on federal charges, lose her license, and get sued.
But it is perfectly legal for people not subject to HIPAA (friends, for example) to disclose anything they want.