How long must a facility keep a former resident's clinical record after they have passed away?

A facility is required to maintain a former resident's clinical record for a specific period after their death to ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and ethical obligations. The correct answer, indicating a retention period of two more years, aligns with various guidelines and laws governing medical records. This time frame allows any necessary access to the records for purposes such as resolving billing disputes, reviewing care quality, or addressing any other legal matters that might arise following a resident’s passing.

Retention policies often consider potential needs from family members or legal representatives querying care details or seeking closure regarding health care decisions made during the resident's life. The two-year period strikes a balance between respecting confidentiality and providing the necessary timeframe for these potential needs while also facilitating comprehensive record management practices within healthcare facilities.