A patient’s financial counselling record is deemed as part of their Patient Health Records1 .The minimum retention period for Patient Health Records depends on whether:

- It is an electronic or paper record; and

- It is an inpatient or outpatient record.

In general, the minimum retention periods of Patient Health Records are as follows:

- All computerized/ electronic Patient Health Records: Lifetime + 6 years

- Paper inpatient records:

• Adults: 15 years from last day of: (i) stay in the facility, or (ii) consultation or treatment (if applicable), whichever is later

• Minors: Until the patient is 24 years of age; or 15 years from last day of: (i) stay in the facility, or (ii) consultation or treatment (if applicable), whichever is later

• Persons who lack mental capacity: Lifetime + 6 years

- Paper outpatient records: 6 years from last day of consultation or treatment, whichever is later (unless High Risk Patients and/or Cases)

Licensees should refer to the Licence Conditions on the Retention Periods of Patient Health Records for the up-to-date requirements relating to the retention period for Patient Health Records.