Final answer:
The retention period for inactive or deleted medical records is dictated by state regulations, which vary widely. Common retention times range from a few years to several decades, depending on the type of medical record and state laws.
Step-by-step explanation:
The length of time that inactive or deleted medical records should be stored depends on the regulations of the specific jurisdiction. However, the most accurate answer to your question is as required by state regulations. Each state has different laws regarding the retention of medical records, and these laws can stipulate various retention periods based on the type of record and other factors. For example, some states require adult medical records to be kept for a minimum of 7 years after the last patient encounter, while others may require longer. Pediatric records may need to be retained for longer, sometimes until a minor patient reaches a certain age past 18. Other states have even more specific requirements, and healthcare facilities may choose to retain records for longer periods based on their own policies or for other legal reasons, such as ongoing investigations or pending litigation.