When releasing the medical records of a patient with a properly executed authorization, may we release records of other physicians or clinics which may have been sent to us?
Yes, any records, letters, laboratory or diagnostic tests from outside sources which your physicians have used in diagnosing or treating the patient, and which are a part of the patient’s record, should be released in accordance with the request form.
How long must I keep medical records?
At this time, we recommend that clinic records be retained indefinitely, because unlike hospital records, there is no applicable statute for retention of clinic records. Also, even though Mississippi does have a Statute of Limitations law, this is often loosely interpreted by the courts. For example, if a “cause of action” is discovered after the statute has expired, the case could be allowed to proceed and you would need your records if this occurred. We realize retaining records indefinitely is burdensome at best, but at this time, this is the best answer we can offer.
A physician in our practice is becoming disruptive. What is our liability? Do we have a duty to report him if we suspect substance abuse?
The disruptive physician usually directs his anger toward staff; however, there is no guarantee the anger will not be directed at a patient. By displaying this behavior, the physician is also hampering communication with the staff and the staff may be hesitant to point out potential problems (such as a mistake in a prescription) for fear of his reaction. The clinic staff is an important quality check and support system for the physician to prevent potential errors concerning medical care. If this system is hampered through poor communication, then the potential for harm to the patient increases.
If a clinic and/or its partners have knowledge of a physician’s propensity toward disruptive behavior, the clinic may be in a precarious position if a patient is harmed as the result of the physician’s behavior. If the clinic and its partners fail to take corrective action, then the clinic may be considered grossly negligent and be exposed to punitive damages.
Additionally, we suggest you consult your clinic’s attorney regarding this issue as a claim made by a clinic employee would NOT be covered by the medical professional insurance policies issued by this company as these policies only cover claims made by patients.
The Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure will take anonymous reports of disruptive behavior and suspected substance abuse. The Board does investigate all reports.
What do I need to do in order to properly close my practice?
It is important that you give your patients adequate notice of your retirement. A letter should be sent to all active patients stating your date of retirement as well as who will be taking over your practice. A notice should also be prominently placed in your office several months prior stating the date you will retire. In addition to the patient letters, a notice in the local paper, on your website, and on your clinic’s social media platforms is recommended.
If another physician does not take over the practice, you may want to have a staff member available for approximately 30 days after you retire to assure all “loose ends” are resolved. It may be wise to utilize some type of system as a “double check” to ensure all patients are notified and that records have been sent to the new physician of the patient’s choice.
We must emphasize the necessity of having all records completed at the time of your retirement. You may want to consider assigning someone to check the records to be sure entries are complete and signed.
Many of our minor patients have divorced parents. If the parent that does not have custody of the child requests the child’s medical records, may we release them?
Who can authorize the release of medical records of a deceased patient?
If an estate has been opened, only the executor or administrator can authorize the release of medical records. If an estate has not been opened, as many as three heirs-at-law of the decedent can authorize the release of medical records; however, each must first complete an heirship affidavit pursuant to Mississippi law.
Heirship Affidavit
1 file(s)
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If I want to start using telemedicine in my practice, what should I do?
The very first thing you should do when starting to incorporate telemedicine into your practice is to decide on the following:
- Type of service you want to provide
- Equipment you will need
- Location of service – at both ends
- Telemedicine practice times (hours/day and days/week)
- Personnel needed – at all sites
After that, contact MACM and let us help you through the process.
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