The retention period for patient records can vary depending on the country, state or province, and specific regulations governing medical recordkeeping. In the United States, for instance, the retention period can be determined by state law and can differ from one state to another. However, there are some general guidelines that are often followed:
Adult Patient Records: In most cases, adult patient records are typically retained for a minimum of 7 to 10 years from the last date of treatment. Some states may require records to be kept for a longer period, such as 10-15 years or even indefinitely.
Minor Patient Records: Records of minor patients are often retained for a specific period after the patient reaches the age of majority, which is usually 18 years old. For example, if a patient was a minor when they received treatment, the records might be kept for 7-10 years after they turn 18.
Deceased Patient Records: Records of deceased patients may also be subject to retention requirements. Some jurisdictions may require keeping these records for a specific period after the patient's death, such as 3 to 10 years.
It's important to note that certain medical facilities or institutions may have their own policies regarding record retention, and they might choose to retain records for longer periods than required by law.
The primary purpose of retaining patient records is to ensure continuity of care, provide reference for future treatments, and protect both the patient and the healthcare provider in case of any legal or medical issues that may arise.
If you have specific concerns or questions about your medical records, it's best to check with your healthcare provider or the institution where you received treatment to understand their specific record retention policies.