What is a requirement for physical therapists after the last date of treatment for retaining patient records?

Physical therapists are required to retain patient records for a minimum of 5 years after the last date of treatment. This requirement ensures that important patient health information is accessible for a substantial period, which can be crucial for ongoing patient care, legal matters, or audits. Retaining records for this duration also helps maintain compliance with state regulations and the standards set by the relevant licensing boards. While other options suggest shorter times or indefinite retention, the five-year timeframe strikes a balance between accessibility for future needs and managing the realities of storage and record-keeping for healthcare providers.