[Destruction of medical records in psychiatry; a disturbing development]

The Netherlands have the 'Wet op de Geneeskundige Behandelingsovereenkomst', a law concerning the medical treatment agreement with the patient. Among other things it regulates the duties regarding the keeping and destruction of medical records. A critical evaluation is necessary, because the existing regulation is expected to have a negative effect on patient care and on scientific research. Development of better criteria for destruction of medical records is necessary. Until then, the destruction of medical records should be stopped.