Is there expectation of privacy at the front desk in a medical office?
I own a medical office in Florida. I would like to put cameras without sound recording in the waiting area, hallway and at front desk for security reasons. My understanding is that there is no expectation of privacy in the waiting area and hallway, but what about front desk? I have 3 people working there, and there is a typical sliding window that opens into the waiting area.
Thank you
There certainly are practical reasons to want to have such a camera for protection. Different states have different laws about "recording" others. I imagine that whether or not the camera will be open and visible to those being recorded (or whether there is a prominent and posted notice) will play a big part in the analysis. Typically, relevant laws address hidden cameras and sound recording without consent. I am not licensed to practice law in Florida. I would seek counsel from a Florida attorney to ensure that, your intended use is permissible under Florida law and I would also seek counsel to ensure that the use of the camera at the front desk does not violate HIPAA regulations as to patient privacy.
The above is offered and intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. You should consult directly with an attorney in the jurisdiction in which you reside for individual advice regarding your individual situation. Nothing contained herein is intended to be nor should it be construed as advertising attorney services.
Keith G Langer
Licensing Attorney in Wrentham, MAOf key importance will be whether the cameras can show documents being processed by patients or staff, as that material is clearly confidential and falls under HIPAA.