| If original is in the medical record chart, retain copy 5 years then destroy. If original is not placed in chart, retain 10 years after last discharge or death unless patient was under 18 (or 31 prior to January 1974) or retain 3 years after final federal audit report is agreed upon by the department and the federal government, whichever is longer, then destroy. |
Statute of limitation is unclear as to how long to retain medical records. The department retains these records longer than 5 years as there are readmissions 5 years after patients are discharged. These records are also needed in case the department becomes involved in litigation concerning a patient or former patient. |
Paper |
Shred |