Where should accredited veterinarians submit samples for USDA Program Disease testing?

Submitting samples for USDA Program Disease testing must be done through a laboratory that is approved by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). This is crucial because APHIS laboratories maintain specific standards for testing and procedures to ensure accuracy, reliability, and compliance with federal regulations. The approval process ensures that the laboratory is equipped to handle the particular types of diagnostics required for disease surveillance or other USDA initiatives.

Choosing any local veterinary clinic, a laboratory at the veterinarian's discretion, or a government laboratory in their state does not guarantee that the facility is certified or authorized to conduct the required tests. Using a non-approved facility could lead to unreliable results and jeopardize animal health management protocols, public health, and regulatory compliance. It is essential for accredited veterinarians to adhere to the established guidelines by submitting samples only to an APHIS-approved laboratory to ensure valid and actionable results.