Closing practice? Make patients aware, records available, responsibility clear

Why This Topic Matters

Practice closure can trigger record-retention duties, patient-notification obligations, and reporting requirements that affect licensing, audits, and future billing or enrollment status. Understanding these broad responsibilities helps practices reduce legal exposure and avoid administrative complications after the office closes.

Article Sections

1. Practice management

   Overview of the responsibilities that can arise when a practice closes, including keeping records secure and available and recognizing the broader legal and compliance context.

2. Who gets the patients?

   Discussion of patient notification, referral or custody arrangements, and related privacy considerations after retirement or practice closure.

3. Other notes to write

   Additional notifications that may be required for boards, payers, and federal programs, along with the importance of keeping closure-related records and notices up to date.