Which statement is true about the PHS policy's scope?

• A. It applies to vertebrate animals used in research, regardless of funding source
• B. It applies only to federally funded projects
• C. It governs only care during transport
• D. It is optional for institutions

Answer: (A)

The policy’s reach is about vertebrate animals used in research and related activities under the Public Health Service umbrella, applying to work conducted at institutions that receive PHS funds, and it extends to that work regardless of how the specific project is funded. In other words, if an institution gets PHS funds, the care and use of vertebrate animals in any PHS-supported context must meet the policy’s standards, no matter the direct source of funds for a given project. This broad aim ensures humane care across all PHS‑funded or PHS‑supported research, training, and teaching involving vertebrates. It’s not limited to projects funded directly by federal dollars, it’s not about transport alone, and institutions with PHS funds are required to comply rather than optional.