How often must the IACUC review the animal care program and facilities?

The IACUC (Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee) is required to review the animal care program and facilities at least once every six months. This semi-annual review is essential to ensure compliance with federal regulations and institutional policies regarding animal welfare. The frequency of this review is designed to monitor the ongoing welfare of animals used in research and teaching, assess adherence to policies, and identify areas for improvement.

The semi-annual review allows the IACUC to detect any potential issues promptly, ensuring that all aspects of animal care — including housing, feeding, and veterinary care — meet established standards. This regular evaluation is crucial for maintaining high ethical standards in research and to evaluate compliance with the Animal Welfare Act and the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.

Choosing a one-year or two-year interval would not meet the regulatory requirement and would not provide enough oversight to mitigate risks to animal welfare. On the other hand, a review every three months could be excessive and impractical for many institutions, given the resources required for such frequent evaluations. Therefore, the six-month review cycle strikes a balance between sufficient oversight and practical implementation in institutional settings.