What is the primary mission of the USDA's National Veterinary Accreditation Program (NVAP)?

The primary mission of the USDA's National Veterinary Accreditation Program (NVAP) is to provide practitioners with information to ensure animal health and public well-being. The NVAP focuses on training veterinary professionals to understand and implement requirements related to animal disease control and prevention, which is essential for safeguarding both animal and public health. By equipping veterinarians with the necessary knowledge and skills, the program promotes a coordinated approach to managing health risks that could affect animal populations and, consequently, human health through zoonotic diseases. This mission is fundamental to public health initiatives, as it directly addresses the intersection of animal health and human safety, underscoring the importance of veterinary practices in contributing to overall community well-being.

The focus of the program is not on surgical training, regulating pricing, or managing veterinary associations, which are outside the scope of its mission.