Audio Recording Doctors Visits

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OKCnative
OKCnative Member Posts: 326 Member
in Head and Neck Cancer #1

I've noticed in a few threads people mentioning that they were frequently frustrated with the fact that they often forgot crucial instructions or what was said during doctors visits because of the medications they were on or simply because of the chemo fog their brain was in.

Some said this is why they tried to always bring someone with them to take notes.

I was wondering how many people simply use their cell phone to audio record their doctors meetings?

Because of my profession I'm used to doing this when meeting with clients etc. So, from day one I recorded all of my interactions with doctors. This allowed me to review the meetings later for details I forgot and also allowed my wife to hear what was said at the meetings she could not attend.

I found this to be extremely helpful as I'd often go back and re-listen to a meeting.

It's an extremely easy process and most smart phones come with an audio recording app.

I even have the moment my doctor told me I had cancer on tape. It's sort of surreal to listen to that moment, even now that it's a month post treatment.

One tip, put your phone in airplane mode first. If you don't, an incoming call could shut the recording app off.

Also, has anyone had a doctor object to being recorded? Personally, I never told them. I simply had the phone in my hand or sitting on my lap with the screen turned off. I didn't want them to be nervous about what they said so I felt more comfortable not telling them. 

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  • HelenBack
    HelenBack Member Posts: 87 Member
    edited October 2017 #2
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    I used my smartphone to

    I used my smartphone to record appointments as well, and found it really helpful, especially as we sought multiple opinions. Interestingly, the first doctor apologetically told me I could not record because whatever he said to us was considered to be the property of the cancer center. I thought it was strange. All the other doctors were at teaching hospitals and had no problem with it.

    Helen

  • lorijeannj
    lorijeannj Member Posts: 56 Member
    #3
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    I would keep the recording

    I would keep the recording off and listen.  If you didn't hear it the first time, probably doesn't apply.  If it does apply to you, you'll hear it when you need to.

  • OKCnative
    OKCnative Member Posts: 326 Member
    #4
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    lorijeannj said:

    I would keep the recording

    I would keep the recording off and listen.  If you didn't hear it the first time, probably doesn't apply.  If it does apply to you, you'll hear it when you need to.

    What in the world would keep

    What in the world would keep you from being able to record AND listen? The fact of the matter is, many patients are on pain medications, in a chemo fog or are in shock when they get certain information that may prove very important. There is plenty that applied to me that I didn't recall until I listened to the recording. Or, when you listen to it a second or third time you realize if something was meant the way you recall it.

    My mother in law often comes from doctors meetings thinking she is dying and without hope. We all sit down and listen to the recordings and realize she is simply being dramatic and the doctor is telling her what 'could happen' if she doesn't take care of herself.

    "You'll hear it when you need to" is wishful thinking and reckless IMO.

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