Gaining Access While Preserving Anonymity in Medical Settings
Sound School Podcast
Deep Dive
Why did Selena Simmons-Duffin focus on primary care clinics offering abortion services?
She wanted to highlight a growing trend where primary care doctors are integrating abortion services into their practices, especially after the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022.
How did Selena gain access to record inside Seven Hills Family Medicine?
She contacted the clinic, spoke to Dr. Arnold, and after building rapport, asked for permission to record on location. The clinic then reached out to patients scheduled for the day to ask if they were comfortable with being recorded.
What role does HIPAA play in reporting inside medical facilities?
HIPAA primarily protects patient privacy, but it allows reporters to be present in waiting rooms and other public areas with permission. Patients have the final say on whether they want to be recorded or not.
How did Selena ensure patient anonymity during her recordings?
She and her colleague waited in the clinic, and only entered exam rooms after patients had consented a second time. They also recorded from a distance during sensitive moments to maintain privacy.
What was the significance of recording everyday medical appointments alongside abortion services?
It demonstrated that abortion services are integrated into standard primary care, showing that the clinic handles a variety of medical issues in a single day, not just abortions.
How did Selena handle patients who did not want to be recorded?
She respected their wishes and did not record those appointments. The clinic informed her about the procedures happening, but she did not interact with patients who declined to be recorded.
Why did Selena bring a photographer along for the reporting?
She believes strong visuals are essential for the online version of the story, as stock images of doctors and patients are often inadequate and misleading.
What lessons did Selena learn about patient consent while reporting on abortion?
She learned that patients often have stories they want to share and that assuming they want anonymity can be a mistake. It's important to ask and respect their wishes.
- The "show, don't tell" principle in journalism.
- Challenges of illustrating healthcare realities while maintaining patient privacy.
- The importance of showing the diversity of services within a single medical facility (e.g., abortion alongside routine care).
Shownotes Transcript