TB Reporting and Referrals

The following provides guidance for referral of patients to the Florida Department of Health in Collier County (DOH-Collier)

Tuberculosis Reporting

TB Suspect or Case:

Persons with suspected or confirmed active TB disease must be reported to the DOH-Collier by the next business day at 239-252-6007, on weekends/afterhours at 239-293-3010, or by fax at 239-963-0358 in accordance with Chapter 381.0031 and 392.53 Florida Statutes, and Florida Administrative Code (FAC) rule 64D-3.043.

The following information must be reported to DOH-Collier:

• Patient demographic information, including name, address, home telephone number, date of birth, race, and sex. 
• Pertinent diagnostic information including, but not limited to results of Mantoux skin and IGRA (Interferon Gamma Assay) tests, laboratory tests, radiographic examinations, and physical examinations. 
• Name, title, address, and telephone number of the diagnosing physician or individual submitting the report.

Tuberculosis Referrals

Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI): LTBI is not considered a reportable disease in Florida. Health care providers should complete a TB Risk Assessment and only refer individuals with medical conditions that increase their risk for progression to active disease. Providers must include supporting documentation for the diagnosis (i.e., physical examination and testing results) with the referral.

• Please refer to the TB Risk Screening Form which is required and is located under “Related Resources”.
• Fax referrals to the DOH Collier TB Program and program staff will contact the patient to schedule an appointment or to obtain more information. Walk-ins are not accepted.
• A TB blood test or IGRA (such as QuantiFERON TB Gold Plus or T-Spot TB Test) is preferred.
• The patient must bring a copy of their chest x-ray report and CD to their appointment.
• DOH-Collier will provide treatment services once supporting documentation to confirm the diagnosis and risk factors has been received from the referring provider.

Low-risk individuals who are willing to commit to completing an entire course of treatment to cure should be referred to their Primary Care Physician or a Community Health Center for treatment services. DOH-Collier is available for consultation for treatment recommendations, if needed.

* All referred LTBI treatment services are provided contingent on available public health resources. Treatment services may be suspended at any time.