If a PHS assured institution is not AAALAC accredited, what must be included in the annual report to OLAW?

The annual report submitted to the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW) by a Public Health Service (PHS) assured institution that is not accredited by the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC) must include a semiannual report from the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). This requirement ensures that OLAW receives updates regarding the institution's animal care and use practices in a structured and periodic manner.

The semiannual IACUC report provides important insights into how well the institution is adhering to ethical standards and regulatory requirements for animal research. It includes information on the number of protocols reviewed, inspection results, any significant issues that may have arisen, and how they are being addressed. This information is critical for maintaining compliance with PHS policy.

This requirement also establishes transparency and accountability in the handling of animal research at institutions seeking federal funding or involved in PHS regulations. Hence, for a PHS assured institution without AAALAC accreditation, including the semiannual IACUC report in the annual report is not just a regulatory obligation, but it is also vital for maintaining public trust and confidence in animal research practices at the institution.