Overview
Accurate transcription depends on capturing clear audio from you and your patients. By following these best practices, you can improve recording quality and reduce the need for manual corrections later. Whether you’re conducting telehealth visits or in-person consultations, these guidelines will help you optimize your setup.
We understand that audio capture errors can be frustrating. We're here to help! If you need additional support, reach out [email protected]
Telehealth Visits
Use Microphone and Speakers Instead of Headphones/Headsets
Most headsets only pick up the speaker’s voice and can diminish or completely lose the patient’s voice.
What to Do: Use your device’s built-in speaker so Attend can record both sides of the conversation.
Echo Cancellation
Telehealth platforms often use echo cancellation, which may unintentionally filter out the patient’s voice if you’re using the same device to record.
What to Do: If you notice the patient’s audio isn’t being captured, use a second device (e.g., a smartphone) with Attend to record while keeping your telehealth session on the main device.
Use a Second Device to Capture Phone Calls
Conducting a phone call on speaker using the same device you’re recording on can sometimes distort or miss parts of the conversation.
What to Do: Put the call on speaker and use a second device (like a tablet or computer) running Attend to record both ends of the conversation.
Aim for a Quiet Environment
Background noise—such as other conversations, office equipment, or hallway chatter—can reduce transcription accuracy. Choose a private area or close nearby doors and windows to limit ambient sound.
Laptop Setup Best Practices
Proximity
Why: A laptop microphone works best when it’s near both the speaker and the patient.
What to Do: Position the laptop on a desk or surface between you and the patient for clear audio capture.
Open Lid
When using a laptop's built-in microphone, it is necessary to keep the laptop open. Some device manufacturers will disable the microphone when the laptop is closed. A partially closed laptop lid can block or muffle the microphone.
What to Do: Keep the lid fully open and angled toward the conversation, or use an external microphone. Check Attend’s mic volume indicator to verify it’s picking up sound.
Phone or Tablet Setup Best Practices
Stable Surface
Holding your phone or tablet can create movement and noise, lowering audio quality.
What to Do: Place your device on a firm, flat surface—ideally between you and the patient—to ensure stable and consistent audio capture.
Avoid App Switching During Recording
On mobile devices, switching apps typically suspends the current application, interrupting audio capture. This may result in the audio being paused an an error message displaying at the top of the screen.
What to Do: Avoid multitasking while Attend is recording. If you need to check another app, pause recording first, then resume when you return to Attend.
Preventing Pauses Due to Automatic Screen Lock
Many devices don’t allow apps to prevent screen lock for security or power-saving reasons. When the screen on your device locks or the device goes to sleep, it may pause recording.
What to Do: Keep an eye on your screen and wake the device if it locks. If Attend appears paused, tap “Resume” to continue recording.
Following these best practices helps ensure that Attend accurately captures all sides of your clinical conversations. If you have additional questions or run into any issues, consult our other support articles or reach out to our Support Team for personalized assistance.