How long must a chiropractor retain records after a patient's treatment concludes?

The requirement for chiropractors to retain patient records for a minimum of 5 years after treatment concludes is in accordance with Ohio law. This timeline is established to ensure that there is an adequate period for potential legal claims or investigations that may arise after the treatment has ended. Retaining records for 5 years provides sufficient time for the chiropractor to reference treatment details if needed for patient care continuity, legal reasons, or responding to inquiries from regulatory bodies. This practice helps maintain professional accountability and supports informed continuity of care should the patient seek further treatment in the future.

In the context of the other options, retaining records for only 3 years, 1 year, or indefinitely do not align with the regulations specified for chiropractors in Ohio. While indefinite retention could seem protective, it is not a practical requirement within the defined legal framework. Conversely, shorter retention periods like 3 or 1 year would likely be insufficient for addressing potential patient needs or legal situations that may emerge after that time frame.