How many years must medical records for minors be kept after they turn 18 or after discharge?

Medical records for minors must be kept for a specific duration after they reach adulthood or after they are discharged from care to ensure continuity of accountable health care and legal protection. In Arizona, the law mandates that these records be retained for a minimum of six years after the age of majority (18 years) or discharge. This time frame allows for sufficient access to medical history which may be required for future health care decisions, legal situations, or other essential medical purposes as the individual transitions into adulthood.

The six-year retention standard strikes a balance between protecting patient rights and providing health care providers with appropriate timelines for record management. This requirement is grounded in the need to support both the individual’s continuity of care as well as the institution’s obligations in case of future investigations or audits.