How long do dental offices need to keep paper records on site?

We have heard that after 7 years paper records can be disposed of. Wondering if this is true. Would like documentation to prove this also.

How long do dental offices need to keep paper records on site?
7 YEARS, SOME KEEP IT LONGER JUST IN CASE!





YOU CAN GET THE WRITTEN PROOF OF THIS FROM THE HEALTH REGULATING AUTHORITY IN YOUR COUNTRY IE WHERE THE DR REGISTERS.
Reply:yes it is 7 years. unless the patient is still a minor then they have to be kept for 7 yrs after they turn 18. YOu can call you dental office and find out or go to


http://www.ada.org/


or your states dental board.
Reply:In most cases, 7 years is the minimum. Our liability carrier suggests 10 for paper and longer for x-rays.





Your own practice liability company would have the appropriate documentation.





When you do dispose of old records, it is a good idea to hire a paper shredding company to make sure no personal information is compromised. This is also true when taking an old computer out of service.