In Georgia, how long should physical therapy records be retained after patient discharge?

In Georgia, the retention of physical therapy records after patient discharge is mandated to be for a minimum of six years. This duration is important for multiple reasons, including legal, clinical, and administrative purposes. Retaining records for six years allows healthcare providers the necessary time to access information related to patient care, which can be critical for ongoing treatment, quality assurance, and legal compliance.

This timeframe aligns with the state's legal requirements regarding patient records, ensuring that physical therapists maintain thorough documentation that is available for review if needed for audits, legal inquiries, or continued patient care. Such a policy helps protect both the patient’s rights and the therapist's accountability in their practices.

Overall, the six-year retention period is established to support best practices in healthcare management and promote continuity and quality of care.