Providing routine digital recordings of clinic visits to patients: a multiple-case study of three settings in the U.S

To explore the impact, barriers, and facilitators of routinely sharing clinic visit recordings with patients in diverse clinical settings.

We conducted a multiple-case study of three early-adopter clinics in the U.S.: a primary care clinic in Michigan and an oncology clinic in Texas that shared audio recordings, and a neurology clinic in Arizona that shared video recordings. From March 2016 to January 2017, we conducted semi-structured interviews with clinicians, patients, care partners, and administrators (≥18 years, English-speaking), and direct observation of patients using their recordings. Transcripts were analyzed using framework analysis to identify cross-cutting themes. Three coders independently reviewed all transcripts, and a medical anthropologist audited key analytic stages.

We interviewed 67 stakeholders (32 patients, 10 care partners, 15 clinicians, and 10 administrators). Across sites, stakeholders reported that recordings improved patients' recall, understanding, and communication. Patients also used recordings for reflection on their performance in visits and planning, while care partners described reduced anxiety and enhanced involvement. Clinicians reported improved visit interactions, and some used recordings for self-assessment. Key factors influencing implementation included clinic culture, institutional support, workflow logistics, data security, and patient characteristics. Concerns were limited and focused primarily on data privacy. A conceptual framework summarizing themes related to barriers, facilitators, use, and impact of routine recording in healthcare was developed.

Routinely sharing visit recordings can enhance patient-centered communication and care partner engagement while supporting clinician performance. Successful implementation depends on aligning institutional culture, privacy safeguards, and workflow integration.

Sharing visit recordings was acceptable and beneficial across stakeholders. The practice of sharing recordings revealed that clinic visit interventions are more than just transactions of medical information-they promote emotional support, self-reflection, and family engagement.