Surveillance
The Surveillance staff maintains responsibility for all incoming disease
notification reports and forms, ensuring that patient information is evaluated,
that data are entered accurately into the TBC Registry, that all suspects and cases
are referred to the appropriate Public Health Center (PHC), and that all data are
accurately reported to the California Department of Health Services (CDHS). This
work assures complete follow-up of all potential tuberculosis (TB) suspects and
cases in both the private and public sectors. Staff also provides consultative
services in compliance with TBC policies, guidelines and objectives.
The Surveillance staff acts on behalf of the TB controller to approve hospital
discharges of TB patients and suspects
(Health and Safety Code, Section 121361). In
County hospitals, the TB public health nurse (PHN) liaisons review and approve
those discharges. TBC works closely with district and hospital staff to determine
an appropriate discharge plan.
Chapter Eight
of the TB Control Manual describes in detail reporting mandates for clinicians,
hospitals, and laboratories.
