When implementing an AI scribe in your veterinary practice, understanding recording consent laws is crucial for client compliance. This guide covers can help your practice stay compliant when recording client appointments.
We'll break down one-party vs. two-party consent states, key federal rules, and what you need to know for your practice.
One-Party vs. All-Party Consent
One-Party Consent States: Only one person in the conversation needs to consent to recording. Since you (the veterinary professional) are part of the conversation, you can record without explicitly asking the client for permission.
All-Party Consent States: Everyone in the conversation must consent to being recorded. This means you need explicit permission from your clients before recording their appointments.
Getting Consent when using an AI scribe
Being transparent about recording often puts clients at ease and builds trust. When clients understand you're using technology to improve their pet's care, they're typically supportive.
Verbal Consent: Simply ask your client if it's okay to record the appointment and get their verbal agreement. You could say something like: "We use an AI scribe to help with our notes. Do you mind if I record today's appointment?"
Written Consent: Include recording consent in your intake forms or have clients sign a separate consent form (here's an example). This provides clearer documentation of their agreement.
Visual Reminders: Consider hanging posters in exam rooms to inform clients about your AI scribe before appointments begin. Here's a poster you can print and use for your practice.
Legal Note: This information is for educational purposes only and isn't legal advice. Recording laws vary and change, so we recommend consulting with an attorney to ensure you're following all applicable laws in your area.
US Recording Consent Laws by State
State | Consent Type | Notes |
Alabama | One-Party |
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Alaska | One-Party |
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Arizona | One-Party |
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Arkansas | One-Party |
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California | All-Party |
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Colorado | One-Party |
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Connecticut | One-Party (In-Person) All-Party (Telephone) |
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Delaware | All-Party |
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Florida | All-Party |
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Georgia | One-Party |
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Hawaii | One-Party (General) All-Party (Private Places) | One-party consent generally, but requires consent for recording in private places |
Idaho | One-Party |
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Illinois | All-Party |
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Indiana | One-Party |
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Iowa | One-Party |
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Kansas | One-Party |
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Kentucky | One-Party |
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Louisiana | One-Party |
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Maine | One-Party (General) All-Party (Private Places) | One-party consent generally, but requires consent for private places |
Maryland | All-Party |
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Massachusetts | All-Party |
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Michigan | All-Party* | There is some dispute due to a court ruling, so we recommend getting the consent of all parties to cover your bases. |
Minnesota | One-Party |
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Mississippi | One-Party |
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Missouri | One-Party |
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Montana | All-Party |
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Nebraska | One-Party |
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Nevada | One-Party (In-Person) All-Party (Phone) | One-party for in-person; all-party for phone calls and text messages |
New Hampshire | All-Party |
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New Jersey | One-Party |
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New Mexico | One-Party |
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New York | One-Party |
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North Carolina | One-Party |
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North Dakota | One-Party |
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Ohio | One-Party |
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Oklahoma | One-Party |
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Oregon | One-Party (Electronic) All-Party (In-Person) | One-party for electronic; all-party for in-person conversations |
Pennsylvania | All-Party |
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Rhode Island | One-Party |
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South Carolina | One-Party |
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South Dakota | One-Party |
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Tennessee | One-Party |
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Texas | One-Party |
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Utah | One-Party |
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Vermont | No state law (federal one-party consent applies) |
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Virginia | One-Party |
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Washington | All-Party |
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Washington, D.C. | One-Party |
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West Virginia | One-Party |
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Wisconsin | One-Party |
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Wyoming | One-Party |
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Important Notes
Federal Law: Generally follows one-party consent under 18 U.S.C. § 2511
Interstate Calls: When recording across state lines, follow the most restrictive law
Penalties: Violations can result in both criminal charges and civil liability
Exceptions: Most laws include exceptions for law enforcement and emergency situations
Private Expectation: Most laws only apply where there's a reasonable expectation of privacy
Summary
Understanding and obtaining proper consent both protects your practice and builds stronger client relationships through transparency. We hope this resource helps you implement VetScribe confidently in your veterinary practice.
Any questions, or need help getting started? Drop us a line at [email protected]!
This information here is for general education and should not be considered legal advice. Laws can change, and specific situations may have additional considerations. We always recommend getting familiar with your local laws to ensure compliance, and consulting a legal advisor to cover your bases or where you have questions.