RESOURCE CENTER
X-Ray Record Retention Requirements by State
Find x-ray and medical imaging record retention requirements for your state, with links to official government sources. Use this resource to help determine when archived x-ray film may have reached the end of its required retention period.
STATE-BY-STATE GUIDE
Find Your State’s X-Ray Retention Requirements
Select a state below to review x-ray and medical imaging record retention requirements, along with links to official state sources.
ALABAMA
Alabama X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT HOSPITAL PATIENTS
5 YEARS
Minimum retention period after discharge for adult patients.
MINOR PATIENTS
5 YEARS AFTER MAJORITY
Minimum retention period after the patient reaches the age of majority.
X-RAY / IMAGING
5 YEARS
Minimum retention for applicable x-rays, radiographs and other imaging products.
Important Note: Mammography imaging and reports are subject to a longer 10-year retention requirement. Retention requirements may also vary by provider or facility type, so facilities should confirm the requirements applicable to their records before destruction.
OFFICIAL ALABAMA SOURCES
Alabama Administrative Code 420-5-7-.13 — Medical Record Services
Alabama Administrative Code 545-X-4-.08 — Retention and Disposition of Medical Records
Last verified: August 2026 | Alabama X-Ray Film Purging Services
ALASKA
Alaska X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT HOSPITAL PATIENTS
7 YEARS
Minimum retention period after discharge for adult patients.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 21 \ 7 YEARS
Keep until at least 2 years after the patient reaches age 19, or 7 years after discharge, whichever is longer.
X-RAY FILM
5 YEARS
Minimum retention for hospital x-ray film.
OFFICIAL ALASKA SOURCES
Alaska Statute AS 18.20.085 — Hospital Records Retention
Last verified: August 2026 | Alaska X-Ray Film Purging Services
ARIZONA
Arizona X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
6 YEARS
Minimum retention after the patients last date of care.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 21 | 6 YEARS
Keep until age 21 or 6 years after the last date of care, whichever is later.
X-RAY / DIAGNOSTIC IMAGES
6 YEARS
Arizona defines x-rays and other diagnostic images as source data, retained for 6 years from collection.
OFFICIAL ARIZONA SOURCES
Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-2297 — Retention of Records
Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-2291 — Definitions / X-Rays and Diagnostic Images
Last Verified: August 2026 | Arizona X-Ray Film Purging Services
ARKANSAS
Arkansas X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Minimum retention period after the patient’s last discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
10 YEARS + AGE OF MAJORITY
Complete medical records of minors are retained for 10 years after last discharge plus 2 years past the age of majority.
X-RAY FILM
5 YEARS
Actual X-ray film must be retained for 5 years.
Important Note: Arkansas distinguishes between the retention period for the complete medical record and the retention period for actual X-ray film. Facilities should confirm which records and images are included in a proposed destruction project.
OFFICIAL ARKANSAS SOURCES
Arkansas State Board of Health — Rules for Hospitals and Related Institutions in Arkansas
Last Verified: August 2026 | Arkansas X-Ray Film Purging Services
CALIFORNIA
California X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
7 YEARS
Minimum retention period following discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 19 | 7 YEARS
Keep at least one year after the patient reaches age 18 and, in all cases, not less than 7 years.
X-RAY FILM | IMAGES
7 YEARS
X-ray films or reproductions are retained for the same period required for the patient’s medical record.
OFFICIAL CALIFORNIA SOURCES
California Department of Public Health — X-Ray Image and Report (Medical Records) Retention
Last Verified: August 2026 | California X-Ray Film Purging Services
COLORADO
COLORADO X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Medical records must be preserved for 10 years after the most recent patient-care use of the record.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 28 | 10 YEARS
Keep for the period of minority plus 10 years—generally until age 28—or 10 years after the most recent patient use, whichever is later.
X-RAY FILM | IMAGING
FACILITY-SPECIFIC
Imaging retention requirements can vary by facility type. Hospitals should follow the applicable medical-record retention requirements and their retention policy.
Important Note: Colorado has different retention provisions for different types of healthcare facilities. The requirements above reflect licensed hospitals; facilities should verify the regulation applicable to their facility before destroying imaging records.
OFFICIAL COLORADO SOURCES
Colorado Code of Regulations — 6 CCR 1011-1, Chapter 4, Part 10 — Health Information Management
Last Verified: August 2026 | Colorado X-Ray Film Purging Services
CONNECTICUT
Connecticut X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
HOSPITAL PATIENT RECORDS
10 YEARS
Connecticut hospital medical records must generally be kept for a minimum of 10 years after discharge. The regulation allows original records to be destroyed sooner if appropriately microfilmed under the rule.
MINOR PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Minimum retention period after discharge. The short-term hospital regulation does not specify a separate longer retention period for minors.
X-RAY FILM
3 YEARS
Under Connecticut’s practitioner medical-record retention schedule, X-ray films have a specific minimum retention period of 3 years.
Important Note: Connecticut has different retention requirements depending on the healthcare provider and facility type. The 10-year hospital requirement and 3-year X-ray-film provision come from different sections of Connecticut’s regulations, so facilities should verify which requirement applies to the records being considered for destruction.
OFFICIAL CONNECTICUT SOURCES
Connecticut Public Health Code — Sec. 19-13-D3, Hospital Medical Records
Connecticut Public Health Code — Sec. 19a-14-42, Medical Record Retention Schedule
Last Verified: August 2026 | Connecticut X-Ray Film Purging Services
DELAWARE
Delaware X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENT RECORDS
7 YEARS
For physicians, records may generally be disposed of after 7 years from the last entry when the patient has left the physician’s care and has not requested transfer of the records.
MINOR PATIENTS
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
The Delaware provision above does not establish a separate longer minor-patient retention period. Facilities should verify requirements applicable to their facility and record type before destruction.
X-RAY | RADIOLOGY FILM
INCLUDED IN RECORDS
Delaware law specifically recognizes radiology films as medical records that may not be susceptible to ordinary reproduction, but the physician provision does not establish a separate shorter retention period for those films.
Important Note: Delaware retention requirements vary by provider and facility type. The 7-year provision above applies to physicians and should not be interpreted as a universal 7-year destruction schedule for every Delaware hospital or healthcare facility.
OFFICIAL DELAWARE SOURCES
Delaware Code — Title 24, § 1761 — Patient Records
Last Verified: August 2026 | Delaware X-Ray Film Purging Services
FLORIDA
Florida X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
PATIENT MEDICAL RECORDS
7 YEARS
For Florida public healthcare providers and institutions, patient medical records are retained for 7 anniversary years after the last entry. The schedule specifically includes radiology images among these records.
YOUNG CHILDREN
UNTIL AGE 8
For patients under one year of age, the Florida public-records schedule requires the patient medical record to be retained until the patient’s 8th birthday.
X-RAY | IMAGING RECORDS
INCLUDED IN RECORDS
X-ray images, X-ray films, mammogram images, scans and other diagnostic images are retained for 7 anniversary years after the last entry.
Important Note: These retention periods come from Florida’s GS4 schedule for public hospitals, health care facilities and medical providers. Other facility/provider types may be subject to different requirements. Mammography also has separate retention provisions; for example, single-visit mammogram images are retained for 10 years under the schedule. Facilities should verify all applicable requirements before destroying records.
OFFICIAL FLORIDA SOURCES
Last Verified: August 2026 | Florida X-Ray Film Purging Services
GEORGIA
Georgia X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
5 YEARS
Minimum retention period after the patient’s discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
5 YEARS PAST MAJORITY
Records must be retained for at least 5 years after the patient reaches the age of majority. Georgia identifies the age of majority as 18, so this generally means through age 23.
X-RAY | IMAGING
5 YEARS
Films, scans and other images must be retained by the hospital for at least 5 years after the date of the procedure. For a minor, they must be retained for at least 5 years past the age of majority.
Important Note: Georgia specifically includes X-ray films within the definition of a patient’s medical record and separately requires hospitals to retain films, scans and other images for at least 5 years. Original images may be released when required for patient care, but documentation of their disposition must be retained for the applicable retention period.
OFFICIAL GEORGIA SOURCES
Last Verified: August 2026 | Georgia X-Ray Film Purging Services
HAWAII
Hawaii X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
HOSPITAL PATIENT RECORDS
STATE LAW APPLIES
Hawaii hospital regulations require patient records to be retained in accordance with existing state laws governing medical-record retention. The hospital rule itself does not specify a single retention period.
MINOR PATIENTS
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
The hospital regulation does not state a separate numeric retention period for minor patients. Facilities should verify all applicable state and federal requirements before destruction.
X-RAY | IMAGING
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
The hospital rule requires medical records to document patient care and references X-ray information elsewhere in the regulations, but I did not find a separate statewide hospital X-ray-film destruction period in the current Hawaii DOH hospital rule.
Important Note: Hawaii’s hospital regulations do not provide a single numeric retention period in the hospital rule itself. Because retention requirements can depend on record type, facility type and other applicable laws, facilities should verify the requirements applicable to their records before destroying archived X-ray film.
OFFICIAL HAWAII SOURCES
Hawaii Administrative Rules — Title 11, Chapter 93, Hospitals — §11-93-21 Medical Record System
Last Verified: August 2026 | Hawaii X-Ray Film Purging Services
IDAHO
IDAHO X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
HOSPITAL RECORDS
RECORD-SPECIFIC
Idaho’s hospital rule requires hospital records to be retained in accordance with Idaho Code § 39-1394. That statute establishes specific retention periods for certain records rather than one blanket period for every hospital record.
MINOR PATIENTS
5 YEARS PAST MAJORITY
X-ray films must be retained until at least 5 years after the patient reaches the age of majority, if that date is later than 5 years after exposure.
X-RAY | IMAGING
5 YEARS
X-ray films may be destroyed 5 years after the date of exposure, provided the hospital record contains written findings from a physician who read the films. For minors, the longer period above applies.
Important Note: Idaho specifically permits hospital X-ray films to be destroyed after the applicable retention period only when the hospital record contains written findings of a physician who read the films. Destruction must occur in the ordinary course of business, use an effective method that protects confidentiality, and records may not be destroyed on an individual basis.
OFFICIAL IDAHO SOURCES
Idaho Code § 39-1394 — Patient Care Records — Retention — Authentication
Last Verified: August 2026 | Idaho X-Ray Film Purging Services
ILLINOIS
ILLINOIS X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT HOSPITAL RECORDS
10 YEARS
Hospitals must preserve medical records for at least 10 years.
MINOR PATIENTS
10 YEARS
The hospital provision establishes a minimum 10-year retention period and does not state a separate longer age-based period for minors.
X-RAY | IMAGING
5 YEARS
Illinois hospital regulations specifically state that hospital X-ray or Roentgen photographs must be retained in accordance with the X-Ray Retention Act, which requires 5 years, with longer retention when notification of litigation is received.
Important Note: Illinois distinguishes between the general hospital medical record and hospital X-ray photographs. Medical records must generally be retained for at least 10 years, while hospital X-ray or Roentgen photographs have a specific 5-year retention requirement. Records and X-rays may require longer retention when the hospital receives notice of pending litigation
OFFICIAL ILLINOIS SOURCES
Last Verified: August 2026 | Illinois X-Ray Film Purging Services
INDIANA
INDIANA X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
HOSPITAL PATIENT RECORDS
10 YEARS
Indiana does not provide one general state records-retention schedule that applies to all public, nonprofit, and privately owned hospitals. Requirements depend on the facility and applicable licensing or regulatory provisions.
MINOR PATIENTS
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
X-RAY | IMAGING
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
Important Note: Indiana states that its government records-retention schedules do not establish retention requirements for nonprofit or privately owned hospitals. Record-retention requirements for those facilities may instead arise from the state or federal agencies regulating the facility, other applicable laws, and facility policies. Facilities should verify the requirements applicable to their records before destroying archived X-ray film.
OFFICIAL INDIANA SOURCES
Indiana Archives and Records Administration — Records Retention Guidance
Last Verified: August 2026 | Indiana X-Ray Film Purging Services
IOWA
IOWA X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT MEDICAL IMAGES
7 YEARS
Medical images, whether stored digitally or on film, must be retained for 7 years for patients age 18 or older.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 25
For minors, Iowa requires retention for 7 years plus the difference between the patient’s age and 18. In practical terms, this results in retention until approximately age 25.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
7 YEARS
The rule expressly applies to medical images stored digitally or on film, and facilities using hard-copy film may continue retaining the images in that format throughout the required retention period.
Important Note: Iowa specifically regulates retention of medical images, including hard-copy film and digital images. Images identified as being involved in a legal case should be appropriately identified and may need to be retained longer. Mammography records must comply with both Iowa’s mammography requirements and the general medical-image rule, using the longer applicable retention period.
OFFICIAL IOWA SOURCES
Iowa Administrative Code — 641—37.12(2), Record Retention of Medical Images
Last Verified: August 2026 | Iowa X-Ray Film Purging Services
KANSAS
KANSAS X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT MEDICAL IMAGES
10 YEARS
Each medical record must be retained for 10 years after the patient’s last discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 19 | 10 years
Retain for 10 years after the patient’s last discharge or one year beyond the date the minor reaches the age of majority, whichever is longer.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
10 YEARS | HOSPITAL RECORD
Kansas hospital regulations do not establish a separate shorter state retention period for patient X-ray films in the hospital rule verified. Because the medical-record rule requires the hospital record to be retained for 10 years
Important Note: Kansas requires hospitals to maintain medical records for the applicable retention period and to keep a summary of destroyed medical records for at least 25 years. Facilities should verify that all applicable state, federal, litigation-hold and facility-specific requirements have been satisfied before destroying archived X-ray records.
OFFICIAL KANSAS SOURCES
Last Verified: August 2026 | Kansas X-Ray Film Purging Services
KENTUCKY
KENTUCKY X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT MEDICAL IMAGES
6 YEARS
Hospital medical records must be retained for at least 6 years from the date of discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 21 | 6 years
Records must be retained for at least 6 years after discharge or 3 years after the patient reaches the age of majority, whichever is longer. Kentucky’s age of majority is 18, so the age-based requirement generally extends through age 21.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
FOLLOW MEDICAL RECORDS REQUIREMENT
Radiology reports are maintained as part of the patient’s medical record. Kentucky does not specify a separate shorter retention period for diagnostic X-ray film in this hospital regulation.
Important Note: Kentucky requires hospitals to retain medical records for at least 6 years, with a longer age-based period when applicable to minors. The hospital regulations address radiology services and reports but do not provide a separate shorter retention period for archived diagnostic X-ray film. Facilities should verify all applicable federal, state, litigation-hold and facility requirements before destruction.
OFFICIAL KENTUCKY SOURCES
Kentucky Administrative Regulations — 902 KAR 20:016, Hospitals; Operations and Services
Last Verified: August 2026 | Kentucky X-Ray Film Purging Services
LOUISIANA
LOUISIANA X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT HOSPITAL PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Hospital records must be retained for a minimum of 10 years from the date the patient is discharged.
MINOR PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Louisiana’s hospital retention statute establishes a 10-year minimum after discharge and does not specify a separate longer age-based retention period for minors in this provision.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
3 YEARS \ 6 YEARS
X-ray films, images and similar diagnostic materials must generally be retained for at least 3 years after discharge. Medicare and/or Medicaid participating hospitals must retain reports, films, scans and other image records for at least 6 years.
Important Note: Louisiana distinguishes between hospital records and the images used to produce diagnostic or therapeutic reports. X-ray films and similar images may also require longer retention when requested in writing by the patient, an attending or consulting physician, or legal counsel with an interest affected by the patient’s medical records.
OFFICIAL LOUISIANA SOURCES
Louisiana Revised Statutes § 40:2144 — Hospital Records and Retention Act
Louisiana Administrative Code — Title 48, Part I, §9395 — Retention
Last Verified: August 2026 | Louisiana X-Ray Film Purging Services
MAINE
MAINE X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
HOSPITAL PATIENT RECORDS
HOSPITAL PATIENT RECORDS
Maine law governs access, confidentiality and handling of hospital medical records but does not establish a single universal retention period in the hospital-record statute.
MINOR PATIENTS
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
Maine’s hospital-record provisions address records of minor patients but do not establish a separate universal age-based retention period in these provisions.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
INCLUDED IN TREATMENT RECORDS
Maine law specifically defines treatment records as including X-rays. The statute does not establish a separate statewide X-ray retention period and states that existing legal and ethical retention obligations remain applicable.
Important Note: Maine does not establish a single numeric retention period for all hospital medical records or X-ray images in these statutes. Retention requirements may depend on the provider, facility, record type and other applicable requirements. Facilities should verify the requirements applicable to their records before destruction.
OFFICIAL MAINE SOURCES
Maine Revised Statutes, Title 22 §1711 — Patient Access to Hospital Medical Records
Last Verified: August 2026 | Maine X-Ray Film Purging Services
MARYLAND
MARYLAND X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
7 YEARS
Medical records and laboratory or X-ray reports generally may not be destroyed for 7 years after the record or report is made unless the patient receives the required notice.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 25
Medical records and laboratory or X-ray reports for a minor generally may not be destroyed until the patient reaches the age of majority plus 7 years unless the required notice is provided. Maryland’s age of majority is generally 18, making this approximately age 25.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
7 YEARS
Maryland specifically includes X-ray reports in its 7-year retention requirement. The statute addresses X-ray reports, so facilities should separately verify requirements applicable to original archived X-ray films or images before destruction.
Important Note: Maryland permits earlier destruction in certain circumstances when the statutory notice requirements are followed. The notice must identify the planned destruction date and give the patient an opportunity to retrieve the record. Facilities should confirm all applicable requirements before destruction.
OFFICIAL MARYLAND SOURCES
Maryland Health-General § 4-403 — Destruction of Medical Records
Last Verified: August 2026 | Maryland X-Ray Film Purging Services
MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
HOSPITAL PATIENT RECORDS
20 YEARS
Hospital and clinic medical records may be destroyed 20 years after the patient’s discharge or final treatment.
MINOR PATIENTS
20 YEARS
The hospital statute establishes the 20-year period after discharge or final treatment and does not specify a separate longer age-based retention period for minors.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
5 YEARS
Radiological films, scans and other image records must be retained for at least 5 years following the date of service. Signed narrative reports and interpretations remain part of the medical record and are subject to the longer medical-record retention requirement.
Important Note: Massachusetts distinguishes radiological films, scans and other image records from the patient’s general medical record. Images must be retained for at least 5 years following the date of service, while signed reports and interpretations remain part of the medical record and are subject to the longer retention period.
OFFICIAL MASSACHUSETTS SOURCES
Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 111, § 70 — Hospital and Clinic Medical Records
105 CMR 130.370 — Retention of Records
Last Verified: August 2026 | Massachusetts X-Ray Film Purging Services
MICHIGAN
MICHIGAN X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
7 YEARS
Medical records must generally be retained for a minimum of 7 years from the date of service, unless a longer period is required by another state or federal law or regulation.
MINOR PATIENTS
7 YEARS
Michigan’s general medical-record retention statute establishes a 7-year minimum from the date of service and does not provide a separate longer age-based retention period for minors in this provision.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
7 YEARS
Medical records, including X-ray films, must generally be retained for at least 7 years from the date of service unless a longer retention period applies. Michigan’s Radiation Safety program specifically confirms that this requirement includes X-ray films.
Important Note: A longer retention period may be required by other state or federal laws, regulations, or generally accepted standards of medical practice. Mammography records also have separate requirements, including longer retention in certain circumstances.
OFFICIAL MICHIGAN SOURCES
Michigan Public Health Code — MCL 333.16213, Retention of Records
Michigan Radiation Safety — Frequently Asked Questions
Last Verified: August 2026 | Michigan X-Ray Film Purging Services
MINNESOTA
MINNESOTA X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
7 YEARS | PERMANENT RECORD
Portions of a hospital medical record that are not part of the required permanent medical record may generally be destroyed after 7 years. Records defined by Minnesota as part of the individual permanent medical record must be retained permanently.
MINOR PATIENTS
7 YEARS | AGE OF MAJORITY
Hospital medical records of minors must be maintained for 7 years or until the patient reaches the age of majority, whichever occurs later, except portions required to remain part of the permanent medical record.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
VERIFY RECORD TYPE
Imaging-related information may be subject to different retention requirements depending on whether it forms part of Minnesota’s required permanent medical record. Facilities should determine the classification of the records before destroying archived X-ray or imaging materials.
Important Note: Minnesota distinguishes between the individual permanent medical record and other portions of the hospital record. The permanent record includes certain diagnostic information, including outpatient diagnostic test results. Facilities should determine whether the particular imaging records proposed for destruction form part of the required permanent record before disposal.
OFFICIAL MINNESOTA SOURCES
Minnesota Statutes § 145.32 — Old Records May Be Destroyed
Minnesota Rules 4642.1000 — Individual Permanent Medical Record
Last Verified: August 2026 | Minnesota X-Ray Film Purging Services
MISSISSIPPI
MISSISSIPPI X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Hospital records must be retained for a minimum of 10 years from the date the patient is discharged.
MINOR PATIENTS
10 YEARS
The current hospital-record retention statute establishes a 10-year minimum after discharge and does not provide a separate longer age-based retention period for minors.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
3 YEARS
Graphic matter, images, X-ray films and similar materials used to produce a diagnostic or therapeutic report must be retained for at least 3 years after discharge. They must be retained longer when requested in writing by the patient or someone legally acting on the patient’s behalf.
Important Note: Mississippi distinguishes between the complete hospital record and graphic matter such as X-ray films and diagnostic images. Hospital records generally require 10-year retention, while qualifying X-ray films and images have a specific 3-year minimum retention period. Longer retention may be required when requested in writing or when another applicable requirement prevents destruction.
OFFICIAL MISSISSIPPI SOURCES
Mississippi Code § 41-9-69 — Period of Retention of Hospital Records
Mississippi State Department of Health — Minimum Standards of Operation for Mississippi Hospitals
Last Verified: August 2026 | Mississippi X-Ray Film Purging Services
MISSOURI
MISSOURI X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Patient medical records must be retained for a minimum of 10 years.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 20 | 10 YEARS
A minor patient’s medical record must be retained until the patient’s 20th birthday or for 10 years, whichever occurs later.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
FOLLOW MEDICAL RECORD REQUIREMENTS
Missouri’s current hospital regulation does not establish a separate shorter retention period for diagnostic X-ray film. Patient medical records must be retained for the applicable 10-year period, with the longer requirement applying to minors when applicable.
Important Note: Missouri’s current hospital regulations require medical records to be preserved for the applicable retention period and allow hospitals to retain them longer for clinical, educational, statistical or administrative purposes. Facilities should also confirm whether other state, federal or litigation-related requirements require longer retention before destroying archived X-ray records.
OFFICIAL MISSOURI SOURCES
Missouri Code of State Regulations — 19 CSR 30-20, Hospital Licensing Rules
Last Verified: August 2026 | Missouri X-Ray Film Purging Services
MONTANA
MONTANA X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Hospital medical records must generally be retained for at least 10 years following the patient’s discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 25
For a patient who is a minor, the medical record must be retained until the patient reaches age 25.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
5 YEARS
Diagnostic imaging film and electrodiagnostic tracings must be retained for 5 years. Interpretations must be retained for the same period required for the patient’s medical record.
Important Note: Montana distinguishes diagnostic imaging film from the associated interpretation. Diagnostic imaging film must be retained for 5 years, while the interpretation must be retained for the applicable medical-record retention period.
OFFICIAL MONTANA SOURCES
Montana Administrative Rules — ARM 37.106.402, Medical Records
Last Verified: August 2026 | Montana X-Ray Film Purging Services
NEBRASKA
NEBRASKA X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Hospital medical records must be maintained and preserved for at least 10 years following discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 22 | 10 YEARS
Records of minors must be kept until 3 years after the patient reaches Nebraska’s age of majority of 19, effectively age 22, or for the applicable 10-year period when that results in longer retention.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
10 YEARS – PUBLIC HOSPITALS
Nebraska’s official public-hospital retention schedule specifically excludes original X-ray film from the general medical-record category and requires X-ray films to be retained for 10 years after discharge. For minors, retain them for 10 years after discharge or until the patient reaches age 24, whichever is later.
Important Note: Nebraska’s specific X-ray-film retention schedule applies to public hospitals. It requires original X-ray films to be retained for 10 years after discharge, with a longer age-based requirement for minors. Other Nebraska hospitals should verify the retention requirements applicable to their facility before destroying archived X-ray film.
OFFICIAL NEBRASKA SOURCES
Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services — 175 NAC 9, Hospital Medical Records
Nebraska Secretary of State — Records Retention Schedule 125-1, Nebraska Public Hospitals
Last Verified: August 2026 | Nebraska X-Ray Film Purging Services
NEVADA
NEVADA X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
5 YEARS
Health care records must generally be retained for at least 5 years after their receipt or production, unless a longer period is required by federal law.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 23
Health care records may not be destroyed while the patient is under age 23. Once the patient reaches age 23, records may be destroyed if they have also been retained for at least 5 years, unless a longer period applies.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
5 YEARS
Nevada expressly defines “health care records” to include X-rays, photographs, reports and other recorded medical information. X-rays therefore fall under the general 5-year retention requirement, subject to the age-23 provision and any longer applicable requirement.
Important Note: Nevada requires health care records to be retained for at least 5 years and prohibits destruction of a patient’s records before age 23. A longer retention period may apply when required by federal law or another applicable requirement.
OFFICIAL NEVADA SOURCES
Nevada Revised Statutes — NRS 629.021 and NRS 629.051, Health Care Records and Retention
Last Verified: August 2026 | Nevada X-Ray Film Purging Services
NEW HAMPSHIRE
NEW HAMPSHIRE X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
7 YEARS
Patient records must be retained for 7 years after discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 19 | 7 YEARS
Records must be retained until at least one year after the patient reaches age 18, but never for less than 7 years after discharge.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
7 YEARS
Hospital patient records include orders and results of X-rays and other diagnostic tests. These records are subject to the hospital’s 7-year retention requirement.
Important Note: New Hampshire’s hospital rule requires patient records to be retained for 7 years after discharge, with the additional age-based protection for minors. The rule includes X-ray and diagnostic-test information within the patient record but does not establish a separate shorter retention period for archived X-ray film.
OFFICIAL NEW HAMPSHIRE SOURCES
New Hampshire Administrative Rules — He-P 802.21, Patient Records
Last Verified: August 2026 | New Hampshire X-Ray Film Purging Services
NEW JERSEY
NEW JERSEY X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Medical records must be retained for at least 10 years following the patient’s most recent discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 23 | 10 YEARS
Medical records must be retained for 10 years following the most recent discharge or until the patient reaches age 23, whichever is longer.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
5 YEARS
X-ray films related to the patient’s confinement, or reproductions that maintain the clarity of the original, must be retained for at least 5 years.
Important Note: New Jersey requires a discharge summary sheet to be retained for 20 years following the patient’s most recent discharge, even though the general medical record and X-ray films have shorter minimum retention periods.
OFFICIAL NEW JERSEY SOURCES
New Jersey Department of Health — N.J.A.C. 8:43G, Hospital Licensing Standards
New Jersey Statutes — N.J.S.A. 26:8-5, Preservation of Hospital Records
Last Verified: August 2026 | New Jersey X-Ray Film Purging Services
NEW MEXICO
NEW MEXICO X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Hospital medical records must be retained for 10 years following the patient’s last treatment date.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 19
Medical records for minor children must be retained until the patient reaches the age of majority, plus one year.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
4 YEARS
X-ray films may be destroyed 4 years after the date of exposure when the hospital record contains written findings from the radiologist who read the films. Scans and other image records must also be retained for at least 4 years. Radiological interpretations remain part of the medical record and are retained for at least 10 years.
Important Note: New Mexico distinguishes between X-ray films and the associated radiological findings. X-ray films may be destroyed after 4 years when written radiologist findings are retained in the hospital record. The written findings are subject to the longer medical-record retention period.
OFFICIAL NEW MEXICO SOURCES
Last Verified: August 2026 | New Mexico X-Ray Film Purging Services
NEW YORK
NEW YORK X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
6 YEARS
Hospital medical records must be retained for at least 6 years from the date of discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 21 | 6 YEARS
Records must be retained for at least 6 years after discharge or 3 years after the patient reaches age 18, whichever period is longer.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
6 YEARS | AGE 21
Films, scans, and other image records not incorporated into the medical record must be retained for at least 6 years, or for a minor patient, until 3 years after reaching age 18.
Important Note: New York specifically requires hospitals to retain films, scans, and other image records for the applicable retention period. Radiology interpretations and reports are filed with the patient’s medical record and are subject to the medical-record requirements.
OFFICIAL NEW YORK SOURCES
New York Codes, Rules and Regulations — 10 NYCRR § 405.10, Medical Records
New York Codes, Rules and Regulations — 10 NYCRR § 405.15, Radiologic and Nuclear Medicine Services
Last Verified: August 2026 | New York X-Ray Film Purging Services
NORTH CAROLINA
NORTH CAROLINA X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
11 YEARS
Hospital medical records created when the patient was an adult must be retained for 11 years following discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 30
Hospital medical records created when the patient was a minor must be retained until the patient’s 30th birthday. If the patient is later readmitted as an adult, records from that adult admission follow the adult retention requirement.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
FOLLOW MEDICAL RECORD REQUIREMENTS
North Carolina’s hospital rule does not establish a separate shorter retention period for archived diagnostic X-ray film. Hospital medical records must be retained for the applicable 11-year adult period or until age 30 for records created when the patient was a minor.
Important Note: North Carolina permits medical records to be digitally archived. However, the original records may not be destroyed until the medical records department has had an opportunity to review the digital record for content. Facilities should verify all applicable requirements before destroying original archived records.
OFFICIAL NORTH CAROLINA SOURCES
North Carolina Administrative Code — 10A NCAC 13B .3903, Preservation of Medical Records
Last Verified: August 2026 | North Carolina X-Ray Film Purging Services
NORTH DAKOTA
NORTH DAKOTA X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Hospital medical records must be preserved for at least 10 years from the date the patient was last treated in the hospital.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 21 | 10 YEARS
If the patient was under age 18 at the time of last treatment, records must be retained until the patient’s 21st birthday or for 10 years after the last treatment, whichever is later.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
FOLLOW MEDICAL RECORD REQUIREMENTS
Hospital medical records specifically include X-ray reports. North Dakota’s hospital rule does not specify a separate shorter retention period for archived diagnostic X-ray film, so facilities should follow the applicable medical-record requirements and verify any additional requirements before destruction.
Important Note: Medical records involved in unresolved litigation may not be destroyed. The hospital’s governing body must also determine whether records have research, legal, or medical value requiring retention beyond the minimum period.
OFFICIAL NORTH DAKOTA SOURCES
North Dakota Administrative Code — Chapter 33-07-01.1, Hospitals
Last Verified: August 2026 | North Dakota X-Ray Film Purging Services
OHIO
OHIO X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
6 YEARS
Covered health care facilities must maintain medical records necessary to verify required information and reports for at least 6 years from the date of discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
6 YEARS | VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
The applicable Ohio health care facility rule establishes a 6-year minimum and does not specify a separate longer age-based retention period for minors. Facilities should verify whether another law or facility-specific requirement requires longer retention.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
6 YEARS
Freestanding and mobile diagnostic imaging centers must retain required diagnostic imaging radiology reports and medical records for 6 years from the date of service. The rule does not establish a separate shorter period for the original diagnostic images.
Important Note: Ohio retention requirements can vary by facility and provider type. The 6-year diagnostic-imaging requirement applies specifically to freestanding and mobile diagnostic imaging centers regulated under Chapter 3701-83. Facilities should verify the requirements applicable to their facility and archived X-ray records before destruction.
OFFICIAL OHIO SOURCES
Ohio Administrative Code — Rule 3701-83-11, General Medical Records Requirements
Last Verified: August 2026 | Ohio X-Ray Film Purging Services
OKLAHOMA
OKLAHOMA X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
5 YEARS
Medical records must be retained for at least 5 years beyond the date the patient was last seen.
MINOR PATIENTS
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
Records of newborns and minors must be retained for 3 years past the age of majority.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
5 YEARS
X-rays and other images must be maintained for at least 5 years. Images may be retained digitally or electronically as long as a duplicate can be reproduced. CT and MRI films are maintained in the same manner as X-ray films.
Important Note: Oklahoma distinguishes X-ray images from their associated reports. X-rays and other images must be maintained for at least 5 years, while X-ray reports are preserved according to the applicable medical-record retention requirements. Digital or electronic image retention is permitted when a duplicate can be reproduced.
OFFICIAL OKLAHOMA SOURCES
Oklahoma Administrative Code — Chapter 667, Hospital Standards; OAC 310:667-19-14 and 310:667-23-2
Last Verified: August 2026 | Oklahoma X-Ray Film Purging Services
OREGON
OREGON X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Hospital medical records must be retained for at least 10 years after discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
10 YEARS
The hospital rule establishes a minimum 10-year retention period after discharge and does not specify a separate longer age-based period for minors in this provision.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
7 YEARS
Original clinical records or photographic/electronic facsimiles not otherwise incorporated into the medical record—including X-rays and radiological isotope scans—must be retained for 7 years after the patient’s last examination date, provided professional interpretations are included in the medical record. Mammography images have a 10-year retention requirement.
Important Note: Oregon distinguishes original X-rays and certain other imaging records from the general hospital medical record. Qualifying X-rays and imaging records may be retained for 7 years when the professional interpretation is included in the medical record, while mammography images must be retained for 10 years.
OFFICIAL OREGON SOURCES
Oregon Administrative Rules — Hospital Medical Records Requirements
Last Verified: August 2026 | Oregon X-Ray Film Purging Services
PENNSYLVANIA
Pennsylvania X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
7 YEARS
Hospital medical records must be retained for a minimum of 7 years following the patient’s discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
7 YEARS AFTER MAJORITY
Records for a minor must be retained until the patient reaches the age of majority and then for 7 additional years, or as long as adult patient records are maintained.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
Hospital medical records include the findings and results of radiology examinations. Pennsylvania’s hospital regulations do not specify a separate shorter retention period for archived diagnostic X-ray film, so facilities should verify all applicable requirements before destroying original images.
Important Note: Pennsylvania permits medical records to be microfilmed immediately after completion, but original records may not be destroyed until the medical records department has reviewed the processed film for content. Additional requirements may apply based on record type, facility type, litigation holds, or other applicable laws.
OFFICIAL PENNSYLVANIA SOURCES
Pennsylvania Code — 28 Pa. Code § 115.23, Preservation of Medical Records
Last Verified: August 2026 | Pennsylvania X-Ray Film Purging Services
RHODE ISLAND
Rhode Island X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
5 YEARS
Hospital medical records, either originals or accurate reproductions, must be preserved for a minimum of 5 years following the patient’s discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
UNTIL AGE 23
Records of minors must be retained for at least 5 years after the patient reaches age 18.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
FOLLOW HOSPITAL RECORD REQUIREMENTS
Hospital medical-imaging reports and films are preserved according to the hospital medical-record storage and retention requirements. Rhode Island’s X-ray regulations also require X-ray utilization logs to be retained for at least 5 years after an adult patient’s examination or treatment, and for minors for 5 years beyond the age of majority.
Important Note: Mammography X-rays are subject to separate retention requirements. Rhode Island law requires healthcare providers to retain mammography X-rays for the period required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
OFFICIAL RHODE ISLAND SOURCES
Rhode Island Department of State — 216-RICR-40-10-4, Licensing of Hospitals
Rhode Island General Laws § 23-4.9-1 — Retention of X-Rays
Last Verified: August 2026 | Rhode Island X-Ray Film Purging Services
SOUTH CAROLINA
South Carolina X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Hospital medical records may not be disposed of before 10 years.
MINOR PATIENTS
10 YEARS | LONGER IF NECESSARY
Records of minors must be retained beyond the 10-year minimum when necessary until the applicable statutory period following attainment of majority has expired.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
FOLLOW MEDICAL RECORD REQUIREMENTS
South Carolina’s current hospital regulation does not establish a separate shorter retention period for archived diagnostic X-ray film. Hospital records must be retained for at least 10 years, and facilities should verify whether additional requirements apply before destroying original imaging records.
Important Note: South Carolina permits hospital records to be stored in formats other than paper, including microfilm, but if records are converted before the 10-year retention period expires, the entire record must be preserved. Records of minors may require retention beyond the general 10-year minimum.
OFFICIAL SOUTH CAROLINA SOURCES
Last Verified: August 2026 | South Carolina X-Ray Film Purging Services
SOUTH DAKOTA
South Dakota X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Medical records must be retained for at least 10 years from the actual date of service or patient care.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 20 | 10 YEARS
Records of minors must be retained until the patient reaches age 18 plus an additional 2 years, but never for less than 10 years from the actual date of service or patient care.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
5 YEARS
Radiological departments must have a policy requiring radiological records to be retained for at least 10 years and the actual film to be retained for at least 5 years. Complete signed interpretations become part of the patient’s clinical record.
Important Note: South Dakota distinguishes between radiological records and the actual film. Radiological records must be retained for at least 10 years, while the film itself must be retained for at least 5 years. After the applicable medical-record retention period, destruction must maintain confidentiality and the facility must retain a patient index or abstract containing specified information.
OFFICIAL SOUTH DAKOTA SOURCES
South Dakota Administrative Rules — Chapter 44:75, Medical Record and Radiological Services
Last Verified: August 2026 | South Dakota X-Ray Film Purging Services
TENNESSEE
Tennessee X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT HOSPITAL PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Hospital medical records must be retained for at least 10 years.
MINOR PATIENTS
10 YEARS | MINORITY + 1 YEAR
For newborns and minors, hospital records must be retained for at least 10 years or for the period of minority plus one year, whichever requires longer retention.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
4 YEARS – PHYSICIAN RECORDS
Tennessee’s physician-record rule requires X-rays, radiographs and other imaging products to be retained for at least 4 years. After 4 years, they may be destroyed when separate interpretive records exist. This 4-year provision applies to physician medical records and should not be presented as a universal hospital X-ray-film retention period.
Important Note: Tennessee hospitals must retain medical records for at least 10 years, while the Board of Medical Examiners separately establishes a 4-year minimum for X-rays, radiographs and other imaging products maintained under physician-record requirements. Facilities should determine which requirements apply to the archived imaging records before destruction.
OFFICIAL TENNESSEE SOURCES
Tennessee Department of Health — Standards for Hospitals, Medical Records
Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners — Rule 0880-02-.15, Medical Records
Last Verified: August 2026 | Tennessee X-Ray Film Purging Services
TEXAS
Texas X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT HOSPITAL PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Hospital medical records may generally be disposed of on or after the 10th anniversary of the date the patient was last treated.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 20 | 10 YEARS
For a patient younger than 18 when last treated, records may generally be disposed of after the patient’s 20th birthday or the 10th anniversary of the date the patient was last treated, whichever occurs later.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
5 YEARS
Films, scans and other image records have a minimum 5-year retention period. Radiology reports that become part of the patient medical record are subject to the longer medical-record retention requirement.
Important Note: Texas distinguishes radiological films, scans and other image records from the patient’s general medical record. Medical records generally require 10-year retention, while qualifying films, scans and other image records have a 5-year minimum. Records involved in unresolved litigation may not be destroyed.
OFFICIAL TEXAS SOURCES
Texas Health and Safety Code § 241.103 — Preservation of Records
Texas State Library and Archives Commission — Local Schedule HR, Radiological Services
Last Verified: August 2026 | Texas X-Ray Film Purging Services
UTAH
Utah X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT HOSPITAL PATIENTS
7 YEARS
Hospital medical records must be retained for at least 7 years.
MINOR PATIENTS
AGE 22 | 7 YEARS
Medical records of minors must be retained until age 18 plus 4 years, but in no case for less than 7 years.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
HOSPITAL POLICY
Radiological reports must be filed in the patient’s medical record. Utah’s hospital radiology rule states that radiological film is retained according to the hospital’s own retention policy rather than establishing a separate statewide numeric period for the film itself.
Important Note: Utah permits hospitals to destroy medical records after the applicable minimum retention period, but the hospital must first provide public notice once a week for three consecutive weeks in a newspaper of statewide distribution. Radiological film is separately retained according to hospital policy.
OFFICIAL UTAH SOURCES
Last Verified: August 2026 | Utah X-Ray Film Purging Services
VERMONT
Vermont X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT HOSPITAL PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Professional case records for hospital patients must be kept on file for a minimum of 10 years.
MINOR PATIENTS
10 YEARS
Vermont’s hospital licensing statute establishes a 10-year minimum for patient case records and does not specify a separate longer age-based retention period for minors in this provision.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
FOLLOW APPROPRIATE RECORD REQUIREMENTS
X-rays and films are recognized as health care record information. Vermont does not specify a separate shorter statewide hospital retention period for archived patient X-ray film.
Important Note: Vermont requires hospital patient case records to be retained for a minimum of 10 years. The state’s Radiological Health Rule separately requires diagnostic X-ray facilities to maintain required radiation and quality-assurance records in accordance with applicable Vermont law and, in no case, for less than 3 years; this 3-year requirement should not be interpreted as a 3-year patient X-ray-film destruction period.
OFFICIAL VERMONT SOURCES
Vermont Statutes — 18 V.S.A. § 1905, General Hospital Requirements
Vermont Department of Health — Radiological Health Rule
Last Verified: August 2026 | Vermont X-Ray Film Purging Services
VIRGINIA
Virginia X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT HOSPITAL PATIENTS
5 YEARS
Hospital medical records, either originals or accurate reproductions, must be preserved for a minimum of 5 years following discharge.
MINOR PATIENTS
UNTIL AGE 23
Records of minors must be retained for at least 5 years after the patient reaches age 18.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
FOLLOW MEDICAL RECORD REQUIREMENTS
Virginia requires hospitals to provide for storage of radiographic films and records. Radiological interpretations, consultations and therapy reports become part of the patient’s medical record. The hospital regulations do not specify a separate shorter retention period for archived diagnostic X-ray film.
Important Note: Virginia permits health records to be stored electronically, by microfilm, or by other approved technological processes. When the process creates an unalterable record, paper originals may be destroyed in a manner that preserves patient confidentiality, except for information that could not be technologically stored.
OFFICIAL VIRGINIA SOURCES
Virginia Administrative Code — 12VAC5-410-370, Medical Records
Virginia Administrative Code — 12VAC5-410-400, Radiology Service
Last Verified: August 2026 | Virginia X-Ray Film Purging Services
WASHINGTON
Washington X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT HOSPITAL PATIENTS
26 YEARS
Hospitals must retain and preserve medical records for a minimum of 26 years from the date the record was created.
MINOR PATIENTS
26 YEARS
The current hospital statute establishes a 26-year minimum from the date the record was created and does not provide a separate longer age-based retention period for minors.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
FOLLOW MEDICAL RECORD REQUIREMENTS
Washington hospitals must retain medical records according to RCW 70.41.190. The current statute requires a minimum 26-year retention period and does not establish a separate shorter hospital retention period for archived diagnostic X-ray film.
Important Note: Washington increased its hospital medical-record retention requirement to 26 years effective July 27, 2025. The new requirement also applies to older medical records that a hospital was still retaining on that date. Records lawfully destroyed before July 27, 2025 under the prior requirements are not affected.
OFFICIAL WASHINGTON SOURCES
Washington Revised Code — RCW 70.41.190, Medical Records of Patients — Retention and Preservation
Washington Administrative Code — WAC 246-320-166, Management of Information
Last Verified: August 2026 | Washington X-Ray Film Purging Services
WEST VIRGINIA
West Virginia X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT HOSPITAL PATIENTS
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
West Virginia law recognizes hospital medical records but does not establish a single universal numeric retention period for all hospital patient records in the provisions reviewed.
MINOR PATIENTS
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
The West Virginia hospital-record provisions reviewed do not establish a separate universal age-based retention period for minor hospital patients. Facilities should verify all requirements applicable to their records before destruction.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
INCLUDED IN HOSPITAL RECORDS
West Virginia law expressly defines hospital “records” to include X-rays and other written or graphic patient data. The statute does not establish a separate shorter statewide retention period specifically for archived hospital X-ray film.
Important Note: West Virginia specifically treats X-rays as hospital records. Additional requirements may apply based on facility type, federal participation, litigation holds, facility policy, or other applicable law. Facilities should confirm the applicable retention period before destroying archived X-ray film.
OFFICIAL WEST VIRGINIA SOURCES
West Virginia Code § 57-5-4a — Hospital Records; Definitions
Last Verified: August 2026 | West Virginia X-Ray Film Purging Services
WISCONSIN
Wisconsin X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT HOSPITAL PATIENTS
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
Wisconsin hospitals are regulated under Wis. Admin. Code ch. DHS 124. The current hospital regulations do not provide a single universal retention period that should be applied to every hospital patient record without considering other applicable requirements.
MINOR PATIENTS
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
Wisconsin’s current hospital regulatory framework does not provide a single universal age-based retention period for all minor hospital records. Applicable state, federal, facility-specific and record-specific requirements should be verified before destruction.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
Wisconsin recognizes X-rays as health care record information, but the current hospital regulations reviewed do not establish a separate universal retention period for archived diagnostic X-ray film. Facilities should verify all applicable retention requirements before destroying original images.
Important Note: Wisconsin DHS advises that there is no single minimum record-retention period applicable to every activity. Different state and federal requirements may apply depending on the facility, record type and circumstances. Facilities should determine the applicable retention period before destroying archived X-ray records.
OFFICIAL WISCONSIN SOURCES
Last Verified: August 2026 | Wisconsin X-Ray Film Purging Services
WYOMING
Wyoming X-Ray Record Retention Requirements
ADULT HOSPITAL PATIENTS
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
Wyoming hospital regulations require medical records and health information to be maintained in accordance with applicable state and federal law. The hospital rule does not establish a single universal numeric retention period for all hospital patient records.
MINOR PATIENTS
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
Wyoming’s hospital licensing rule does not specify a separate universal age-based retention period for minor patient records. Facilities should verify all requirements applicable to the patient and record type before destruction.
X-RAY | MEDICAL IMAGES
VERIFY REQUIREMENTS
X-ray reports are specifically included among the information maintained in the hospital medical record. Wyoming’s hospital rule does not establish a separate shorter statewide retention period for archived diagnostic X-ray film.
Important Note: Records of public hospitals must be preserved for the period established by legally approved retention schedules for publicly funded hospitals through the Wyoming State Archives and State Records Committee. Other hospitals should verify all applicable state, federal and facility-specific requirements before destroying archived X-ray records.
OFFICIAL WYOMING SOURCES
Last Verified: August 2026 | Wyoming X-Ray Film Purging Services
Important Information About Record Retention Requirements
This resource is provided for general informational purposes and is not legal advice. Record retention requirements may vary based on facility type, patient age, record type, federal requirements, litigation holds, accreditation standards and facility policies. Regulations may also change over time. Before destroying medical records or archived X-ray film, facilities should verify the requirements that apply to their specific records and circumstances using the official sources provided above or appropriate legal/compliance guidance.
State requirements last reviewed: August 2026
READY TO PURGE?
HAVE ARCHIVED X-RAY FILM THAT MAY HAVE MET ITS RETENTION REQUIREMENTS?
If your facility has archived X-ray film that is eligible for destruction, X-Ray Purging can handle the entire project at no cost to your facility. Qualifying projects may also receive a silver recovery rebate.