What is the minimum number of years to maintain survey documentation?

The minimum number of years required to maintain survey documentation is three years. This standard is often stipulated by regulatory agencies to ensure that health facilities have a reliable record of their compliance history and can provide evidence of adherence to safety and quality standards over time. Retaining documentation for this period allows facilities to demonstrate their commitment to maintaining high standards and facilitates the review process during inspections or audits. It also ensures that any potential issues can be examined and resolved effectively within a reasonable timeframe. This three-year window aligns with practices in various healthcare regulations, where historical records may need to be referenced for corrective actions, assessments, and continuous improvement efforts.