Calls will be forwarded to a veterinarian in the CVM's Division of Surveillance. The number is also equipped with voice mail to record messages received outside normal working hours. Lack of effectiveness is also considered an adverse effect. During 1995, the agency received more than 3,000 reports.
Every report is evaluated by a veterinarian and entered into a computer database.
In cases where public or animal health is judged to be at risk, the initial review leads to follow-up activity. The final result can be a product recall, change in product labeling, or, in rare circumstances, removal of a product from the market.