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.