DEAR DR. GOTT: My elderly sister and brother-in-law indicated to me that when they last saw his doctor, the doctor was asked if it would be okay to tape the meeting. He asked that they wouldn’t. No reason was given and I think they were a little bit intimidated to press it. I was surprised by that answer for a couple of reasons. First, memories (and hearing) usually decrease as we age and so a record would have been beneficial. Second, I would be somewhat suspicious of someone who wouldn’t stand behind what he or she said. Taping should not be a factor.
Do you think such a request was unreasonable?
DEAR READER: Absolutely not. In my opinion, your sister and brother-in-law are well within their rights to audio record their doctor appointments. [Read more...]