Holding on to Medical Records, Health Insurance, Identity Theft - AARP Bulletin

Ask Sid Holding on to Medical Records

Q How long should I keep medical records

A. Washington state Attorney General Rob McKenna, in hiscolumn, recommends keeping medical bills for at least one year in case there’s a reimbursement dispute. Some experts suggest keeping other records for five years after the end of treatment. Be sure to shred—not just toss—anything with your personal information, such as your health insurance ID number, to help prevent medical identity theft by trash-picking crooks. But keep your medical history and information on your prescriptions and on your health insurer’s policies on reimbursement, benefits and other questions. Sid Kirchheimer is the author of Scam-Proof Your Life (AARP Books/Sterling). Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures

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