How long should a collaborative care agreement be kept on file?

A collaborative care agreement should be kept on file for 5 years to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and to provide necessary documentation for audits or legal inquiries. This timeframe allows for a thorough record of the pharmacist's involvement in patient care and the details of the agreement with the physician or healthcare provider. Keeping the agreement for a longer period supports the continuity of care, enabling pharmacists to refer back to the terms of the agreement as needed, especially if there are changes in practice or a need to demonstrate adherence to established protocols. This requirement is aligned with best practices in healthcare, where documentation must be retained for a reasonable duration to fulfill both legal obligations and quality care assurance.