Patient and Family Etiquette: Photography and Recordings

In today’s health care environment, patients and their families often want to record their interactions with providers. Recording in certain care situations can increase clarity for our families, however it should only be done under certain conditions.

The following frequently asked questions are meant to answer the most common questions concerning patients and families taking photographs or recordings at Texas Children’s.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can patients and families takes photos and recordings during a Texas Children’s visit?

Yes, under the following conditions:

Photography and/or recordings during medical procedures are not allowed without prior approval from each person involved.

Photography and/or recordings must not disrupt patient care.

Photography and/or recordings must not put the privacy of other patients and families at risk.

Physicians, nurses and other health care providers must give consent before being photographed and/or recorded by anyone.

Remember that if you agree to being photographed or recorded, the patient or family member has full ownership of that picture or video. He or she can post the picture/video to social media sites such as Facebook or YouTube and can share it with family and friends.

Can I request that the photography or recording be discontinued?

Yes. If the photography or recording is making you uncomfortable or putting other patients and families at risk, you are empowered to ask the individual to stop. For example, it is perfectly acceptable to say, “I feel uncomfortable when I’m being recorded. It would be helpful if you don’t record so that my full attention can be on the care we’re providing to your child.”

Can a patient or family member use a video chat application (e.g. FaceTime, Skype) to communicate with a Texas Children’s provider?

Yes, however they should first be advised that the application is not secure, and that Texas Children’s does not have control over who may hear information on the recipient’s end. If the patient/ family agrees to continue with the video chat, this should be documented in the medical record (e.g., “discussed results with patient and Dad, with Mom joining in via FaceTime”).

What should I do if a patient or family member refuses to stop taking photos or recording?

Remind him or her of our guidelines. If the patient or family member continues to refuse, reach out to your supervisor for assistance in resolving the matter. If further assistance is required, a supervisor should contact Patient and Family Advocacy at 832-824-1919.

If you believe there is a possibility of physical harm or assault, contact Security.

Remember! At Texas Children’s, you have every right to deny the request from patients and family members to take pictures or recordings.

Contact Us

If you have questions or comments, please contact the Texas Children’s Compliance and Privacy Office at 832-824-2085 or via email at compliance@texaschildrens.org.