Retention of Medical Records in Ghanaian Teaching Hospitals: Some International Perspectives

Abstract

This paper investigates medical records retention and storage practices in selected Ghanaian hospitals. The state-of-the-art in the use and final disposition of non-current patient records is reviewed with a view to recommending remedial measures that could contribute to the improvement of the existing system. The study is limited to teaching hospitals in Ghana. The study describes records retention practices in Ghana. It discusses problems which come to light and suggests feasible solutions modelled on procedures and experience elsewhere. Two data collection instruments, face-to-face interviews and observation, were considered appropriate for the study. The study revealed that the problems inherent in the retention of management of non-current medical records are due to the absence of formal guidelines and procedures, and to the fact that those that exist are not properly enforced. The causes of these deficiencies lie in the lack of accountability and appropriate organizational and managerial structures. A second problem is the paucity of essential financial, material and human resources. Bibliogr., sum. [Journal abstract]