36-714. Tuberculosis control officer
A. The tuberculosis control officer shall be appointed by the director. The
control officer shall be a licensed physician experienced in the field of tuberculosis
and tuberculosis control and, subject to the supervision of the director, shall
administer and direct the activities of tuberculosis control in this state. The control
officer is responsible for the detection, supervision, isolation, quarantine,
investigation of contacts and all other matters pertaining to the investigation, control
and treatment of tuberculosis as provided by this article. With the cooperation of local
medical societies and local health departments and boards, the officer may conduct or
supervise clinics for the diagnosis, treatment and control of tuberculosis in convenient
places throughout the state. The control officer shall maintain or cause to be
maintained a register of the tuberculosis health status of known afflicted persons and of
their contacts, based on current reports obtained from physicians, institutions, clinics,
health departments and other authorized personnel.
B. The tuberculosis control officer may:
1. Examine any or all records, reports and other data pertaining to the condition
of afflicted persons. This information is confidential and privileged and shall not be
divulged so as to disclose the identity of the person to whom it relates. The control
officer or local health officer may disclose records, reports and other data the officer
possesses to health care facilities, health care providers, county and state agencies and
courts as necessary to enforce this article and related rules concerning the control,
examination, treatment, monitoring, isolation, and quarantine of afflicted persons.
2. Inspect the facilities, equipment, operations and administration of institutions
that provide care or treatment for afflicted persons.
3. With the approval of the director, contract with any federal agency, foreign
government, Indian tribal government, any agency of this state or other state or of any
political subdivision of this state or another state or any private entity to assist in
the support of its tuberculosis control program with monies available to the department
for that purpose. This program may include preventive, therapeutic and rehabilitative
services and shall be used to encourage the fullest development and maintenance of an
integrated statewide tuberculosis control program.
C. The tuberculosis control officer shall cooperate with any federal agency,
foreign government, Indian tribal governments, or agency of this state or any political
subdivisions of this state or other state or any private entity to qualify for and obtain
their support in carrying out this article and to aid them in carrying out their
respective responsibilities that relate to afflicted persons.
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