Patient 17L was missing from the satellite clinic that orbited Earth. It was impossible to simply vanish from this isolated worldlet, and no shuttle or lander could hope to approach in secret. Only someone with top clearances could authorize a bed or a release - and they would not be pleased. Sutton writes either near-future near-Earth-orbit SF, or Psi-talent books. I think the Psi books are best, and recommend this one.