Destruction of medical records in psychiatry; a disturbing development
Wiersma, J.; Hutter, J.M.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde 145(10): 453-455
2001
ISSN/ISBN: 0028-2162 PMID: 11268905 Document Number: 527804
The Netherlands have the 'Wet op de Geneeskundige Behandelingsovereenkomst', a law concerning the medical treatment agreement with the patient. Among other things it regulates the duties regarding the keeping and destruction of medical records. A critical evaluation is necessary, because the existing regulation is expected to have a negative effect on patient care and on scientific research. Development of better criteria for destruction of medical records is necessary. Until then, the destruction of medical records should be stopped.