Arizona State Board Of Optometry Practice Exam

For how many years must a licensee maintain a patient record after the last contact with the patient?

1. Two years

2. Four years

3. Five years

4. Six years

The correct answer is: Six years

Maintaining patient records for a specified number of years after the last contact with the patient is essential for various reasons, including legal requirements, continuity of care, and potential future treatment needs. In Arizona, the law mandates that ocular health professionals must retain these records for a period of six years. This duration ensures that relevant information is available if a patient seeks additional treatment or if legal issues arise concerning the care provided. The six-year requirement is set to support a balance between the need for thorough documentation in case of patient inquiries or disputes and the practical aspect of maintaining and storing records. Shorter durations like two, four, or five years may not adequately cover the potential needs that arise long after the last contact, especially considering that some medical issues or legal claims may manifest years later. Thus, compliance with the six-year mandate aligns with both professional standards and patient care ethics.