According to the Leapfrog Group's policy, which step must a hospital take after a surgery is performed incorrectly?

The correct choice is centered on the critical importance of transparency and accountability in healthcare settings. Reporting incidents of incorrect surgeries to regulatory bodies is a fundamental requirement to ensure patient safety and to facilitate oversight of medical practices. This step not only aids in the identification of systemic issues that may have contributed to the mistake but also helps in implementing measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Regulatory bodies play an essential role in maintaining healthcare standards, and their awareness of such incidents is vital for promoting best practices in patient care.

In contrast, while conducting a public apology can be a component of a hospital's response, it does not fulfill the requirement for regulatory accountability. Referring a patient to another specialist might be necessary in certain contexts, but it does not address the broader implications of the surgery error regarding system safety and regulatory compliance. Conducting a follow-up appointment may be part of post-operative care but does not replace the obligation to report the error to the appropriate authorities, which is essential for accountability and learning within the healthcare system.