How often must an IACUC conduct a semiannual program review?

• A. At least semiannually (every six months).
• B. Once a year.
• C. Every two years.
• D. Only when requested by an external auditor.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that IACUC oversight requires ongoing, hands-on evaluation of the entire animal care and use program, plus a verification of facilities, on a strict semiannual cadence. This means the review and facility inspection must happen at least every six months. Doing it more frequently is fine, but never less than six months. This regular check helps catch and correct problems early, ensuring welfare standards are consistently met and improvements are tracked. So the required frequency is every six months. Less frequent schedules, like once a year or once every two years, don’t meet the mandate, and external audits don’t substitute for the institution’s own semiannual review.