Federal and state laws govern the retention and release of medical records. Some Medicaid/Medicare records must be available for verification of charges for a five- year period. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations govern the retention and release of certain occupational health records. Any medical care practitioners involved in substance abuse treatment or occupational medicine should request more information about these laws from their attorneys. A federal law strictly regulates the release of medical information and the management of records for persons undergoing treatment for substance abuse. Medical care practitioners who treat patients for substance abuse should seek assistance in complying with these regulations from the participating governmental agency or a private attorney.