A frequently cited condition is stable. Typically, stable is not a condition on its own; it is usually a qualifier applied to an aforementioned condition. It is commonly used to denote conditions where a patient has a favorable prognosis or stable vital signs.he use of such condition terminology in the U.S. media has increased since the passing of the HIPAA in 1996. Concern for patient privacy and desire to avoid litigation associated with its breach have prompted doctors and hospitals to use these terms as an alternative to disclosing specific medical conditions.