The Program also ensures that institutions respond appropriately to recommendations to improve their animal care and use programs. The members of the CCAC Secretariat provide information and guidance on experimental animal care and use matters to institutions participating in CCAC programs. An assessment panel is usually composed of a veterinarian, at least one other scientific member and one community representative nominated by the CFHS , with an Assessment Director serving as an ex officio member. They are selected, as much as possible, with reference to the nature of the research, teaching or testing at the institution to be assessed. The CFHS nominee is usually drawn from a member society in the local area of the institution to be visited.
All panelists serve voluntarily and without remuneration except expenses.
CCAC Assessment Committee The Assessment Committee, a standing committee of the CCAC, is composed of at least four Council representatives, including one CFHS member. The Chair of Council, Vice-Chair of Council, Executive Director and Assessment Directors serve as ex officio members, with the Assessment Coordinator serving as liaison. The committee is responsible for providing an additional level of consistency and quality control in the Assessment Program by reviewing assessment reports and institutional responses to these reports. It also works towards improvements in the Assessment Program through new or revised CCAC policies. This committee plays a pivotal role in all institutions using animals for research, teaching or testing.