Can You Record Your Conversations with A Medical Professional?

Question

Can you tape record a discussion between yourself and a medical professional during your appointment without obtaining the consent of the medical professional?

"Because Michigan’s definition of “eavesdrop” is to “overhear, record, amplify or transmit any part of the private discourse of others,” Michigan courts have held that participant recording (even without the consent of the other parties) is not prohibited. Therefore, a party to the conversation can record the conversation himself without obtaining the consent of the other parties. He cannot, however, employ a third party to record the conversation on his behalf without getting the consent of all the parties."

I took that to mean that as long as I am a participant in the private conversation and don't employ any third parties to aid in the recording it is OK for me to record the conversation I have with a medical professional? Please tell me if I am correct. I live in Michigan.

I was dissatisfied after Planned Parenthood quoted me as saying statements I never said. I said "I was sexually assaulted when a man penetrated my v****a with his finger." In my medical file, the clinician wrote "He fingered me.", implying that I had said those exact words.

From now I want to exercize my rights and tape record the conversations I have with medical professionals, so they don't mis-quote me. Is that legal in Michigan?

If it is legal, is it also admissible in a court of law?

Answer 1

No, you can be prosecuted and sued civally for wiretapping and violating the medical professionals civil rights.

Answer 2

Ask Abby or Lacey They seem to have the exact same problems as you within minutes  

Answer 3

It's legal in the United States to record a conversation so long as at least one person involved in the conversation is aware that it's being recorded.

Answer 4

You need to check with a lawyer.  

Answer 5

Its legal though not admissible in a court of law unless you have the persons permission to be recording the conversation.

Answer 6

I think you can just put the recorder on the table and tell them that you are forgetful and that you use it to help you remember what was said.

Doctors will get a bit antsy if you have a tape recorder if they think you are going to use it to sue them, but they have the choice of telling you they refuse to speak to you with it on.