How many years must clinical records be retained in total after discharge?

The retention period for clinical records after discharge is a crucial aspect of healthcare administration that ensures compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, as well as protecting patient rights. In Indiana, the law mandates that clinical records must be retained for a total of at least five years after a patient's discharge. This duration allows healthcare facilities to maintain essential documentation that can be necessary for continuity of care, legal matters, and historical data analysis.

This five-year requirement reflects the balance between maintaining records for a sufficient period and the operational needs of healthcare facilities, including space and resources. Therefore, this specific retention duration is not arbitrary; it is rooted in the desire to adequately serve patient needs while also complying with state laws regarding health record management.