For a minor, patient records must be maintained until they reach what age?

In California, patient records for minors must be maintained until the minor reaches the age of 19. This rule is in place to ensure that comprehensive medical history is available until a young adult can independently manage their healthcare decisions. The rationale behind this regulation is to extend the duration of record retention to allow for ongoing care and follow-up, which is particularly important for minors as they transition into adulthood.

This requirement is part of the overarching laws governing healthcare provider responsibilities towards patient records, emphasizing the importance of continuity of care and accessibility to medical information for young patients as they develop into responsible adults. It ensures that all relevant medical history is retained for the appropriate period, allowing for informed decision-making in future healthcare encounters.