Iowa Administrative Code
Agency 481 - Inspections and Appeals Department
Board of Physical and Occupational Therapy
Chapter 801 - Practice of Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants
Rule 481-801.2 - Recordkeeping

(1) A licensee shall maintain sufficient, timely, and accurate documentation in patient records. A licensee's records shall reflect the services provided, facilitate the delivery of services, and ensure continuity of services in the future.

(2) A licensee who provides clinical services shall store records in accordance with state and federal statutes and regulations governing record retention and with the guidelines of the licensee's employer or agency, if applicable. If no other legal provisions govern record retention, a licensee shall store all patient records for a minimum of five years after the date of the patient's discharge, or, in the case of a minor, three years after the patient reaches the age of majority under state law or five years after the date of discharge, whichever is longer.

(3) Electronic recordkeeping. The requirements of this rule apply to electronic records as well as to records kept by any other means. When electronic records are kept, the licensee shall ensure that a duplicate hard-copy record or a backup, unalterable electronic record is maintained.

(4) Correction of records.

(5) Confidentiality and transfer of records. Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants shall preserve the confidentiality of patient records. Upon receipt of a written release or authorization signed by the patient, the licensee shall furnish such physical therapy records, or copies of the records, as will be beneficial for the future treatment of that patient. A fee may be charged for duplication of records, but a licensee may not refuse to transfer records for nonpayment of any fees. A written request may be required before transferring the record(s).

(6) Retirement or discontinuance of practice. If a licensee is the owner of a practice, the licensee shall notify in writing all active patients and shall make reasonable arrangements with those patients to transfer patient records, or copies of those records, to the succeeding licensee upon knowledge and agreement of the patient.

(7) Nothing stated in these rules shall prohibit a licensee from conveying or transferring the licensee's patient records to another licensed individual who is assuming a practice, provided that written notice is furnished to all patients.