Missouri Medical Records Retention Requirements: A 7-Year Guide

Seven (7) years

In general, medical records must be retained by healthcare providers for seven (7) years after the date of the last encounter or service. This requirement applies to all medical records, including paper records and electronic records.

Additionally, medical records must be retained for a longer period of time in certain circumstances. For example, medical records of minors must be retained until the individual reaches the age of majority (18 years old in Missouri). Medical records of individuals who are incapacitated or incompetent must be retained for the duration of their incapacity or incompetence.

Medical records must be stored in a secure location that is accessible only to authorized individuals. Unauthorized individuals should not be allowed to access or view medical records.

Healthcare providers are responsible for ensuring that medical records are properly retained and stored. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in penalties, including fines and imprisonment.