05/02/2018

Protocol for Scanning Medical Records & Shredding Paper Copies

Is one permitted to scan a medical record and shred the original paper copy?

Medical records can be scanned and paper copies of the record can be destroyed. The format of the documentation does not make a difference to CMS or an insurance company as long as the retention requirements for the payer (6-10 years, depending on the insurance contract or CMS regulations) and the documents are maintained or destroyed in compliance with HIPAA legislation. Therefore, once you have it scanned and have a saved backup copy, you may shred.