How long must a pharmacy maintain patient records after the last prescription was filled?

In North Carolina, the requirement for maintaining patient records after the last prescription was filled is indeed at least five years. This duration ensures that pharmacies have adequate access to patient records for various purposes, including legal reasons, audits, and continuity of care. Regulations are designed to protect patient information while also accommodating the needs of healthcare providers to reference previous medical history when necessary.

While some jurisdictions may have different time frames for record retention, North Carolina has established this five-year period as a standard practice. This time frame provides a balance between effectively managing record storage and ensuring that important patient information remains accessible for a reasonable duration. Maintaining records for this length of time helps to uphold the quality of patient care and adherence to regulatory standards.