Is recording a conversation a violation of privacy? Here’s how it impacts healthcare

He kept glancing at the mobile phone screen. I quickly understood that he was recording the conversations in the consultation room. I politely told him that I didn’t like it when someone recorded me like this. “Sir, we might forget what you said. Our daughter would later ask me what the doctor had said,” he said. 

“You could ask her to call me then. Why am I saying this if you are focused on recording rather than listening? I could just give you a recording,” I said. I asked him about his job, and he replied that he worked in sales. “Would you like it if someone recorded your video while you are doing your job?” 
“No, I wouldn’t,” he replied.  
“See, that is exactly what I am trying to say”. 

Lack of privacy has become the curse of modern times. Mobile phones are up everywhere, trying to catch your every move or every word that you utter. You live in constant fear that someone will record all your conversations. 

This is seen not just in the healthcare sector but in all walks of life. When you realise you are being recorded, your voice becomes harsh, your words become limited, and you start speaking mechanically. Would you dare to record a conversation you have with a policeman or a powerful politician?

Some people might be able to talk naturally even if they realise that they are being recorded. However, most people are reluctant to open up in such situations. Besides, the flow of the conversation would be broken if they pause to think about what to say next. 

It is basic courtesy to ask for permission before recording someone speaking. People often forget to address the matter of courtesy when discussing one’s rights. Communication is a two-way process, and it is complete when there are appropriate answers to a question, followed by related questions. Only then would you be able to convey the meaning effectively.
(The doctor is a senior consultant of Medical Oncology and Hemato Oncology at Rajagiri Hospital, Kochi)