Alaska § 18.20.085 - Hospital records retention.
Full text of Alaska Alaska Statutes § 18.20.085 — Hospital records retention., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18.20.085. Hospital records retention.
(a) Unless specified otherwise by the department a hospital shall retain and preserve records that relate directly to the care and treatment of a patient for a period of seven years following the discharge of the patient. However, the records of a patient under 19 years of age shall be kept until at least two years after the patient has reached the age of 19 years or until seven years following the discharge of the patient, whichever is longer. Records consisting of X-ray film are required to be retained for five years.
(b) The department shall by regulation define the types of records and the information required to be included in the records retained and preserved under (a) of this section. The department may by regulation specify records and information to be retained for longer periods than those set out in (a) of this section.
(c) If a hospital ceases operation, it shall make immediate arrangements, as approved by the department, for the preservation of its records.
(d) This section is subject to AS 18.23.100 .
(e) In this section, “hospital” includes those facilities defined as hospitals under AS 18.20.130 and 18.20.210.
Source: official Alaska text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alaska § 18.20.085
What does Alaska Statutes § 18.20.085 cover?
Section 18.20.085 ("Hospital records retention.") is part of the Alaska Statutes, the codified statutory law of Alaska. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alaska § 18.20.085?
A common citation format is "Alaska Statutes § 18.20.085" (Alaska). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alaska law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alaska official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alaska attorney.
How does Alaska § 18.20.085 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alaska can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alaska.