How long must medical records be kept after a patient's last visit?

The requirement for keeping medical records varies by state, but in many cases, the law stipulates that records should be maintained for a minimum of four years after a patient's last visit. This timeframe allows sufficient duration for possible follow-up care, legal inquiries, and continuity of patient treatment. Retaining records for four years ensures that both the veterinarian and the patient can refer back to any past treatments or medical histories if necessary.

In contrast, while some states might mandate shorter or longer retention periods, four years is generally a standard that balances the need for documentation with practical considerations related to storage and resource management in medical practices. Keeping records indefinitely may create logistical issues and burden record-keeping systems, whereas retaining them for two years may not provide enough time for any follow-up treatment or legal needs that arise.