If you are planning to retire and close your medical practice in the near future that is fantastic news. However, before you start celebrating there are things that need to be considered. For example, what are you planning to do with the patient files in your office?
What Are the General Guidelines for Record Retention and Disposal?
When it comes to record retention and disposal, every state is different. California, for example, does not have a statutory requirement, but the California Medical Association recommends retaining medical records for 25 years after a patient last visits the office. This is quite impractical, so for general guidelines, it is recommended to keep:
- Minor patient records until they are 28 years old
- Adult patient records for 10 years after their last office visit
- Deceased patient records for 5 years after their death
Again, these are guidelines and you should always consider state laws and regulations regarding medical record retention and disposal. That being said, where do you plan to keep your medical records after you close your medical practice? How will you handle the constant patient inquiries for their records after you’ve retired? Are you going to shred all the necessary documents by hand? If you need help with document management, there are places you can turn to.
Where Can I Go for Help With Patient Medical Record Disposal and Retention?
If you need help with patient medical record disposal and retention, My Retired Doctor can help. At My Retired Doctor, we offer document management services for physicians who are closing their medical practice and retiring. Since 1993 we’ve offer retiring doctors help with scanning, shredding and storing their patient records. We can also serve as your Release of Information provider to ensure that your patients have easy access to their records even after you’ve closed your practice.
When you head into retirement you undoubtedly want to relax and focus on your family, traveling or hobbies. The last thing you want to fuss over is old patient records. That’s why utilizing My Retired Doctor as your document manger is a great way to relieve stress and let you focus on what really matters.
Do you need the help of My Retired Doctor to manage your patient records?
Is retirement in your near future? If so, congratulations! However, it isn’t quite time to pop the bubbly yet because there are still some loose ends to tie up. For example, do you have a plan for medical record retention and disposal? Why not let My Retired Doctor help? We’ve been providing scanning, shredding, storage, and Release of Information provider services for over 31 years. We have the knowledge and experience necessary to get the job done securely and on-budget. If you need assistance with medical record retention and disposal, we’d be happy to help. To learn more about our exemplary services, contact us today at 877-328-2343 or info@datafied.com!