Which of the following is a permissible disclosure of confidential patient information from a cancer registry?

The correct answer identifies that disclosing confidential patient information to another registry for follow-up purposes is permissible. This practice aligns with the legal and ethical standards governing cancer registries, which often facilitate data sharing among registries. This sharing is crucial for various reasons, such as tracking patient outcomes, ensuring comprehensive data collection for statistical analysis, and enhancing the overall quality of cancer care.

Cancer registries are established to collect detailed information about cancer cases, treatment, and outcomes. Part of their mission involves collaboration with other registries to improve follow-up work and ensure that patients receive appropriate continued care. Such collaborations are generally governed by specific protocols that safeguard patient confidentiality while allowing necessary data transfers.

In contrast, other options present potential issues regarding confidentiality and the appropriate use of patient data. For example, disclosing information to a facility not involved in the patient's care raises privacy concerns, as the facility may not have a legitimate purpose for accessing that information. Sharing details with the patient is typically allowed, yet it is essential to follow specific procedures and guidelines to ensure the protection of sensitive information. Disclosure to the patient's attorney could also be subject to privacy regulations and may require appropriate consent or a legal basis, depending on the situation. Thus, sharing with another registry specifically for follow-up is