Currently, in 2022, the longest duration you must store medical records is 10 years according to § 3731. False claims procedure.
Physical Therapy Medical Record Retention Laws in 2022
How long is a physical therapist required to keep medical records?
The duration may vary based on governing body. Some third party payers may only require 3 years while federal law currently requires 10-years.
You are obligated to abide by the law or rule requiring the longest duration.
Which medical record retention law or rule are physical therapists in private practice required to follow?
The short answer is… “All of them!”
You are required to follow the most strict of all local, state, and federal laws. The same holds true to third-party payer rules and regulations. Currently, 10-years is the longest duration for medical record retention laws and this comes from the federal law.
Paper and Electronic Medical Records
Both paper and electronic medical records are subject to the § 3731. False claims procedure law.
Medicare Specific Guidelines for Medical Record Retention
The Medical Record Maintenance & Access Requirements is a 5-page document that outlines Medicare-specific requirements for medical record retention.
This document includes the following topics:
| Who may request access to these medical records? |
| What type of documentation must you maintain and provide to us or one of our Medicare contractors? |
| What happens if you don’t maintain required documentation or don’t provide access? |
| What are some best practices for meeting the documentation and maintenance requirements? |
Reason Code 4 | Remark Code N519 Physical Therapy Denial
Reason Code 4 Medicare Remarks: "The procedure code is inconsistent with the modifier used or a required modifier is missing." The most common reason for this denial is a missing professional discipline modifier. GP Modifier Physical Therapy GO...
How to Confirm a PT Patient has Traditional Medicare vs Medicare Advantage
Traditional Medicare vs Medicare Advantage Plans Medicare Part B Traditional Medicare is often referred to as Medicare Part B. This plan pays for outpatient services which include physical therapy in private practice. Medicare Part C Medicare...
