University of Kentucky Laboratory Gains Interim Accreditation Restoration

University of Kentucky Laboratory Gains Interim Accreditation Restoration

Lexington, Kentucky – The University of Kentucky’s Equine Analytical Chemistry Laboratory has successfully regained interim accreditation from the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium (RMTC), effective December 23, following a suspension that began on March 11.

The RMTC notified the university that the laboratory had addressed nonconformities related to its Laboratory Code of Standards, which were the basis for the suspension. The Horseracing Testing Laboratory Committee conducted a thorough review of the lab’s corrective actions and found that it was compliant with the required standards.

Background of the Accreditation Suspension

The laboratory’s suspension was initiated after it was discovered that the lab was not adhering to proper business practices for reporting equine drug tests. Following reports of these discrepancies, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) commenced an investigation in February. This inquiry uncovered significant operational issues, leading to a six-month investigation, and eventually resulted in the dismissal of Dr. Scott Stanley, the lab’s director.

A statement from Dr. Stanley’s attorney, Cristina Keith, contested the findings of the university’s audit. She claimed that the report inaccurately represented Stanley’s actions and did not consider the complexities involved in the lab’s daily operations. Keith emphasized that Dr. Stanley did not engage in intentional wrongdoing.

Steps Towards Restoration

In response to the investigation’s findings, Nancy Cox, dean of the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, outlined essential steps to restore quality control within the lab. These included hiring a quality assurance manager and scheduling regular meetings to discuss financial compliance, quality control, and overall operations.

Moreover, Dr. Cynthia Cole, a nationally recognized expert in the testing field, was appointed as the acting director of the lab. Cole has been actively addressing operational deficiencies and maintaining open communication with clients and other stakeholders in the horse racing industry.

Challenges and Future Expectations

Dr. Michael Hardy, the executive director of RMTC, expressed confidence that the University of Kentucky laboratory would eventually achieve full accreditation. “We are confident with the mechanisms it has in place and the progress we’ve seen,” he noted.

The laboratory is now subject to a one-year interim monitoring period, during which it will be closely observed for compliance with RMTC standards. If it successfully meets the criteria, the lab will become eligible for full accreditation.

The Importance of Laboratory Accreditation

Hardy further emphasized the significance of the RMTC’s Laboratory Accreditation Program in supporting industry regulation regarding anti-doping and medication control measures in horse racing. He stated, “A lab like EACL with the capacity to help ensure racing integrity and the well-being of our Thoroughbreds is central to the health of this critically important Kentucky industry.”

Following the recent development, Nancy Cox conveyed her appreciation for the restoration of the lab’s accreditation, acknowledging the vital role it plays in the horse racing sector. “We are particularly grateful for the tireless and dedicated commitment of Dr. Cynthia Cole, who led the re-accreditation effort.”

As the University of Kentucky’s laboratory moves forward, its interim accreditation represents a renewed commitment to ensuring the integrity of equine testing and maintaining the standards necessary for the welfare of racehorses.