LAC 48:I.9395. Retention

A. Hospital records shall be retained by the hospital in their original, microfilmed, or similarly reproduced form for a minimum period of 10 years from the date a patient is discharged, or as required by current law. B. Graphic matter, images, x-ray films, nuclear medicine reports and like matter that were necessary to produce a diagnostic or therapeutic report shall be retained, preserved and properly stored by the hospital in their original, microfilmed or similarly reproduced form for a minimum period of three years from the date a patient is discharged. (Note: Medicare and/or Medicaid participating hospitals shall maintain copies of reports and printouts, films, scans, and other image records for at least six years). Such graphic matter, images, x-ray film, and like matter shall be retained for longer periods when requested in writing by any one of the following: 1. an attending or consulting physician of the patient; 2. the patient or someone acting legally in his/her behalf; or 3. legal counsel for a party having an interest affected by the patient's medical records. C. A hospital that is closing shall act in accordance with the requirements of §9307. D. Medical records shall be properly stored in secure locations where they are protected from fire, water damage, and other threats.