Abstract
An overview of the basic information about dental records, including retention and destruction, that you and your staff should be aware of, provided by MDA Legal Counsel Dan Schulte, J.D. Plus, for your reference, answers to the questions Michigan dental offices are asking about dental record retention, access, release, and destruction.
Dental records are vital for patient care, legal compliance, and professional practice management. Michigan law mandates retaining dental records for a minimum of 10 years, ensuring their confidentiality, accessibility, and integrity. Destruction of records less than 10 years old requires patient notification and authorization, while those over 10 years can be securely disposed of without prior consent. Dental records remain the property of the dentist or the practice unless specific agreements dictate otherwise. Proper handling, including adherence to HIPAA and Michigan-specific laws, safeguards patient privacy and protects against legal risks. Dentists retiring, selling, or closing practices must notify patients and transfer or retain records appropriately. Maintaining detailed and accessible dental records supports continuity of care and upholds professional standards.
Recommended Citation
Schulte, Daniel JD
(2024)
"What You Must Know: Retention and Destruction of Dental Records and Your Most-Asked Questions About Dental Records,"
The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association: Vol. 106:
No.
12, Article 8.
Available at:
https://commons.ada.org/journalmichigandentalassociation/vol106/iss12/8
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