32.1-127.1:01 - Record storage - Virginia Statutes

§ 32.1-127.1:01. Record storage.

A. Medical records, as defined in § 42.1-77, may be stored by computerized orother electronic process or microfilm, or other photographic, mechanical, orchemical process; however, the stored record shall identify the location ofany documents or information that could not be so technologically stored. Ifthe technological storage process creates an unalterable record, the nursingfacility, hospital or other licensed health care provider shall not berequired to maintain paper copies of medical records that have been stored bycomputerized or other electronic process, microfilm, or other photographic,mechanical, or chemical process. Upon completing such technological storage,paper copies of medical records may be destroyed in a manner that preservesthe patient's confidentiality. However, any documents or information thatcould not be so technologically stored shall be preserved.

B. Notwithstanding the authority of this section to copy patient records inthe form of microfilm, prescription dispensing records maintained in or onbehalf of any pharmacy registered or permitted in Virginia shall only bestored in compliance with §§ 54.1-3410, 54.1-3411 and 54.1-3412.

(1994, c. 390; 1998, c. 470.)