The executive committee recently approved a new policy establishing guidelines for the use of cameras and video recording devices and software, including voice capture, of patients and patient information within the Ohio State Optometry Services to protect the privacy and security of patients and their confidential information. Some key points of the policy are as follows:
Prior to recording, videotaping or photographing a patient for use in marketing of any kind, the college will obtain an authorization from the patient or their legal representatives.
Patients, family and visitors may use their own devices to record, take photos or videos only as follows:
- To record conversations when needed to retain patient instructions and with the prior authorization of the clinic attending or their designee who is discussing the patient’s care.
- With the prior authorization of workforce members or others who are to be included in the photo or video for personal use by the patient or the patient’s family and friends.
- Patients, family and visitors should ask for authorization prior to taking photos or video to protect the privacy and safety of patients and staff.
- Photography or videotaping cannot be obtained in instances where doing so may interfere with the provision of care or otherwise create an unsafe environment.
- The photography or videotaping is done in an area where no other patients or patient information will be included in the photograph or video.
In the event that a patient or visitor takes a photograph or video in violation of this policy, the following steps should be taken:
- Workforce members should instruct the individual to immediately stop taking the photograph or video and request that all images and/or recordings be deleted.
- If the individual refuses, the individual may be asked to leave the premises.
To view the full details of the photography and electronic recording policy, please read policy 4.6 of the Optometry Services Policy and Procedures Manual at: I:\CLINIC\POLICY & PROCEDURES MANUAL