We understand that you may wish to record your consultations with our clinicians. For some patients, having a recording can be a valuable tool to help remember important information, share details with family, or simply feel more in control of their healthcare journey. We recognise that for some, recording a consultation may even constitute a reasonable adjustment to support their understanding and engagement.
Our Policy on Recording Consultations
To ensure a safe, trusting, and effective environment for both patients and clinicians, we require that you always seek the permission of your clinician before beginning any recording. This applies to all forms of recording, whether audio or video.
Why We Require Permission
There are important reasons why we ask for your clinician’s consent:
- Privacy and Confidentiality: Your consultation may involve discussions about other individuals (e.g., family members), or the clinician may need to discuss sensitive information with other healthcare professionals as part of your care. Permission ensures that all necessary privacy considerations are addressed.
- Creating a Safe and Open Environment: Clinicians need to feel comfortable and confident to have open and frank discussions with you, providing the best possible care. Knowing a recording is taking place allows them to communicate effectively, ensuring accuracy and clarity.
- Legal and Professional Obligations: Healthcare professionals have legal and ethical obligations regarding patient confidentiality and data protection. Gaining consent ensures we meet these requirements.
- Accuracy and Context: Recordings capture a snapshot of a conversation. By being aware of the recording, your clinician can ensure that all information is presented clearly, accurately, and within the appropriate context.
Covert Recording
Under no circumstances should you covertly record a consultation. Covert recording, which means recording without the knowledge or permission of your clinician, is considered a serious breach of trust and an invasion of privacy.
Such actions can:
- Severely damage the patient-clinician relationship: Trust is fundamental to effective healthcare. Covert recording undermines this trust, making it difficult for your clinician to provide the best possible care.
- Affect our ability to safely care for you: A breakdown in trust can impede open communication and honesty, which are vital for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Have professional and legal implications: Covert recording can have consequences under professional codes of conduct and data protection laws.
Our Recommendation: Open and Transparent Conversation
We always recommend open and transparent conversation. If you wish to record a consultation, the best approach for everyone involved is to simply ask your clinician. Recordings made openly and consensually foster an environment of mutual respect and trust.
Anyone found to be covertly recording consultations will be invited for a conversation with our senior team. We believe in resolving issues through dialogue and maintaining a relationship built on trust and respect.