How long is the information held in the VPMS central database?

The information in the Vermont Prescription Monitoring System (VPMS) central database is retained for a period of six years. This retention period is established to ensure that relevant data is available for monitoring and auditing purposes, helping to prevent prescription drug abuse and ensure appropriate prescribing practices. Keeping records for six years strikes a balance between allowing sufficient time for the evaluation of prescribing trends and maintaining patient privacy and security.

The duration is significant in the context of regulatory compliance and public health initiatives, as it facilitates the tracking of controlled substance prescriptions over a substantial period, enabling law enforcement and healthcare providers to identify potentially problematic patterns. Thus, the correct response reflects the regulatory framework surrounding prescription monitoring in Vermont.