Final answer:
Physicians must file communicable disease reports to aid in public health surveillance and control of notifiable diseases, contributing to public health strategies and policies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Physicians are required to file communicable disease reports because this process is essential for public health surveillance and for implementing control measures for notifiable diseases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) collects such data from local and state health agencies through the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS) and publishes it in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). Data gathered helps inform strategies such as vaccinations to manage epidemics, provide updates on public health issues, and inform medical professionals and the public about potential risks. The compilation of this information also assists in epidemiological studies, allows for the tracking of diseases, and supports efforts to develop public health policies aimed at reducing disease incidence and preventing spread.