Patient record retention checker
Pick the kind of record and the date. The checker gives the date until which to keep it, with the rule it comes from. It applies to clinics in India.
Keep it until at least
27 October 2029
3 years from the date you entered
The medical council rule names in-patients and the dental council rule covers out-patients too. Three years from the last visit is the minimum both use, so this applies it here.
This is a minimum. Keep a record longer where your state’s rules or a pending dispute require it.
Source: IMC Regulations 2002, clause 1.3.1, and Dentists (Code of Ethics) Regulations 2014, clause 3.3.1
Where the periods come from
Each result links to the rule it uses: the Indian Medical Council Regulations 2002, the Dentists (Code of Ethics) Regulations 2014, the Clinical Establishments standard for clinics and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules 1945. The full reading, with the quotes, is in how long to keep patient records in India.
The checker shows minimums and is not legal advice. Confirm your obligations with your State Medical Council or Dental Council.
Questions
How long must a clinic in India keep patient records?
At least three years. The medical council rule says three years for in-patients, the Dental Council rule says three years for out-patients and in-patients, and the Clinical Establishments standard for clinics says 3 or 5 years. A state rule or a pending case can make it longer.
How fast must a clinic give a patient a copy of the record?
Within 72 hours of a request from the patient, an authorised attendant or a legal authority (clause 1.3.2 of the Indian Medical Council Regulations, 2002).
Does the DPDP Act shorten these periods?
No. The Act asks for erasure once consent is withdrawn or the purpose ends, unless retention is necessary to comply with a law in force. The periods above are such laws (section 8(7)).
Is there a retention period for medico-legal records?
We found no national rule. Ask your lawyer or professional indemnity insurer, and keep the record until they say you can destroy it.
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