As an accredited veterinarian, where should you submit samples for USDA Program Disease testing?

Submitting samples for USDA Program Disease testing requires that the samples be sent to a laboratory approved by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). This is crucial because APHIS is responsible for safeguarding animal health, which includes ensuring that testing for diseases of concern is done in a controlled and regulated environment. Laboratories approved by APHIS adhere to specific standards and protocols necessary for accurate and reliable disease testing, ensuring that the results are valid and accepted for regulatory purposes.

Using a private veterinary clinic or your local government office may not meet the necessary requirements for testing established by APHIS. Private clinics may not have the specialized equipment or the required certifications, and local government offices may not be equipped to handle such testing directly or have the same level of expertise. Additionally, while some laboratories might meet state standards, only those specifically approved by APHIS are recognized for USDA Program Disease testing, ensuring that testing protocols are aligned with national health regulations.