AboutAdelaide Rose Expertise Any questions related to Revenue Cycle Management and homecare/facilities operation processes.
Experience I have been in the healthcare industry since 1992. My experience comes from working in a multi-physician practice setting, homecare, ambulatory care and consulting engagements with a "Big 5" firm.
Question QUESTION: How long must a physicians office keep records on site for patients. that have not been seen. We keep them on site for 3 years and then off site for 10. We are running out of space, wonder if we could keep them in house less time if they are readily available. I can not find an answer to this anywhere. If you have a web site I could resource it would be appreciated. We are located in South Carolina. Hope you can help.
Thank you.
ANSWER: Hi Lucy,
please check this web link, the info may not be updated, but at least you'll have the regs# so that you can follow up with your state department
QUESTION: What are the federal, medicare, guidlines for keeping the charts in house. It does not seem to define if they must be in the office or if they can be off site the entire time.
Answer The charts don't have to be kept in house, however, the charts must be easily accessible in the event that these can be requested.
From an operations stand point, depending on your practice you should keep anywhere between 1-3 years in house. This is purely an operation decision that is not driven by any regulations.
