Which of the following best describes the overall goal of a surveillance data governance framework?

• A. To ensure data quality, privacy, appropriate access, and auditable data sharing.
• B. To maximize data collection without regard to privacy.
• C. To centralize all data ownership into a single agency.
• D. To eliminate data sharing with other organizations.

Answer: (A)

A surveillance data governance framework aims to balance data quality, privacy, appropriate access, and auditable data sharing. This combination ensures that the data used for surveillance and public health decisions are accurate and reliable, while individuals’ privacy is protected and only authorized people can work with the data. Clear access controls prevent misuse, and auditable sharing provides a transparent record of who used the data and for what purpose, building trust among partners and ensuring accountability. Together, these elements support responsible data stewardship and enable safe collaboration across agencies when needed.

Choosing an approach that prioritizes maximal data collection without privacy safeguards undermines trust and can violate laws and ethics, leading to harm and noncompliance. Centralizing data ownership into a single agency ignores the reality that many stakeholders contribute and rely on data, risking bottlenecks and a single point of failure. Eliminating data sharing with other organizations blocks essential public health visibility and response, reducing the system’s ability to detect and respond to threats.