Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPD-BC) Practice Exam

How long does CMS require that medical records for Medicare Parts A and B be maintained?

1. 2 years from the date of service

2. 5 years from the date of service

3. 7 years from the date of service

4. 10 years from the date of service

The correct answer is: 7 years from the date of service

The requirement by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to maintain medical records for Medicare Parts A and B is set at a duration of 7 years from the date of service. This timeframe is established to ensure that records are available for audits, legal purposes, and continuity of care. Maintaining records for this duration allows healthcare providers to comply with regulatory standards, assist in claims review processes, and provide necessary documentation during investigations or audits. Records that are retained for at least 7 years help ensure that all clinical information is accessible for review should questions arise regarding patient care or billing.