# Outdoor Pig Production Systems: Management, Welfare, and Economics ## Key Takeaways - Outdoor pig production systems necessitate higher labor inputs for daily shelter movement and paddock management compared to indoor systems, which benefit from automation in feeding and waste removal. Capital investment is lower for buildings but higher for land and fencing in outdoor settings, contrasting with the higher building and manure storage costs of indoor operations. - While outdoor systems generally exhibit lower respiratory disease pressure, they present increased risks of parasite exposure, requiring strategic deworming programs and paddock rotation to mitigate life cycles. Conversely, indoor systems face higher respiratory challenges but allow for more controlled parasite management. - Welfare concerns in outdoor systems include weather exposure, predation, and tail biting, necessitating robust fencing, adequate shelter design, and environmental enrichment like straw or soil. Indoor systems contend with confinement stress, lameness, and respiratory issues. - Nutrient management in outdoor systems relies on in-field cycling, with a risk of nitrogen leaching, whereas indoor systems involve controlled collection and storage for land application. Pasture management and buffer strips are crucial for preventing erosion and runoff into water bodies. - Economic viability of outdoor systems is influenced by land costs, labor availability, and potential market premiums for outdoor-bred products, often offset by higher feed conversion ratios (0.2-0.4 units higher) due to increased energy expenditure for thermoregulation and movement. - Biosecurity in outdoor units requires stringent perimeter fencing to exclude wildlife, boot cleaning stations, dedicated farm clothing, and quarantine protocols for new animals to prevent pathogen introduction from external sources. --- Outdoor pig production systems involve keeping breeding sows, weaners, or finishing pigs on pasture or arable land with portable shelters, fencing, and managed feeding. These systems differ fundamentally from indoor confinement operations in stocking density, labor requirements, nutrient management, and disease exposure patterns. This article provides swine producers with practical guidance on system types, fencing and shelter design, feeding strategies, welfare monitoring, and economic comparisons between outdoor and indoor production. ## At a Glance: Outdoor vs. Indoor Pig Production | Factor | Outdoor System | Indoor System | |--------|----------------|---------------| | Capital investment per sow | Lower for buildings, higher for land and fencing | Higher for climate-controlled buildings and manure storage | | Labor requirement | Higher for daily moving of shelters and paddocks | Lower for automated feeding and waste removal | | Stocking density | 10-20 sows per hectare depending on soil type | 100-200 sows per hectare in slatted-floor barns | | Manure management | In-field nutrient cycling with risk of nitrogen leaching | Controlled collection and storage with land application | | Disease pressure | Lower respiratory disease, higher parasite exposure | Higher respiratory disease, controlled parasite programs | | Welfare concerns | Weather exposure, predation, tail-biting risk | Confinement stress, lameness, respiratory issues | | Market access | Premium potential for outdoor-bred labels | Standard commodity market | Source: [Research trends in outdoor pig production - A review](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28728401) provides an overview of system comparisons. ## System Types and Production Stages ### Breeding Herd on Pasture Outdoor breeding herds typically use dry sows and gilts rotationally grazed on pasture or arable land. Farrowing occurs in individual huts or arks placed on clean ground. Sows are moved to fresh paddocks before farrowing and remain there until weaning. This system requires careful planning of paddock size, hut placement, and drainage. The farrowing paddock must be free of standing water and have adequate shelter for both sow and litter. ### Weaner and Grower Systems Weaners may remain outdoors or be moved to indoor facilities after weaning. [Space assignation and housing options effects on weaner pigs and on subsequent stages in outdoor production systems](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/84929698378) examines how space allocation and housing choices affect weaner performance and subsequent stages. Producers must decide whether to keep weaners in outdoor paddocks with heated huts or transition them to indoor nursery barns. Outdoor weaner paddocks require smaller hut openings to retain heat and protect against drafts. Bedding depth should be increased for weaner groups to 20-30 cm to provide insulation and rooting material. ### Finishing Pigs Outdoors Finishing pigs can be kept outdoors on deep-bedded shelters or in field pens with portable huts. This approach requires more land per pig than indoor finishing and presents challenges with feed efficiency, carcass fat cover, and seasonal growth rates. Outdoor finishing is more common in temperate climates with well-drained soils. Producers should expect slower growth rates during winter months and adjust market weights accordingly. Feed conversion ratios are typically 0.2-0.4 units higher outdoors compared to indoor finishing due to increased energy expenditure for thermoregulation and movement. ## Fencing and Containment ### Permanent Perimeter Fencing Outdoor pig units require secure perimeter fencing to contain pigs and exclude predators. Permanent fencing should be at least 1.2 meters high with woven wire or electric strands. The bottom wire should be close to the ground to prevent pigs from rooting underneath. Corner posts must be braced to maintain tension. Use treated timber or steel posts set at least 60 cm deep. Gate openings should be wide enough for tractor access to deliver feed and move shelters. ### Temporary Electric Fencing Portable electric fencing allows rotational grazing and paddock division. Use polywire or polytape with a minimum of 3-5 strands for sows and 2-3 strands for weaners. Energizers must deliver at least 2,000 volts at the fence line. Check voltage daily with a digital voltmeter. Vegetation contact reduces voltage, so maintain a weed-free strip under the fence using a string trimmer or herbicide. Reel systems mounted on tractors or ATVs speed up paddock moves. ### Rooting Behavior and Fence Maintenance Pigs root and test fences constantly. Inspect fence lines weekly for damage, sagging wires, and grounding issues. Repair breaks immediately. In sandy or loose soils, fence posts may need deeper setting or concrete footings. Electric fence chargers require battery or mains power with backup systems for weather outages. Solar-powered energizers work well for remote paddocks but require direct sunlight for battery charging. Keep spare fence posts, wire, and connectors in a field repair kit. ## Shelter and Bedding ### Farrowing Huts Farrowing huts protect sows and piglets from weather, crushing, and predation. Huts should be insulated, waterproof, and ventilated. Common designs include A-frame arks, kennel-style huts, and modified shipping containers. Each hut must have a creep area for piglets with supplemental heat if farrowing occurs in cold months. Heat lamps or heated pads should be placed in the creep area away from the sow. Check hut floors for levelness and repair any protruding nails or sharp edges before each farrowing group. ### Dry Sow Shelters Dry sows need shade in summer and windbreaks in winter. Portable field shelters or straw-bedded arcs provide protection. Sows will use shelters more consistently when bedding is clean and dry. Remove wet or soiled bedding weekly and replace with fresh straw. Position shelters with openings facing away from prevailing winds. In summer, orient shelters to maximize shade coverage during the hottest part of the day. ### Bedding Management Straw is the standard bedding for outdoor pig shelters. Use wheat or barley straw for absorbency and insulation. Bedding depth should be 15-30 cm in farrowing huts and 10-20 cm in dry sow shelters. Remove and compost used bedding between groups to break parasite cycles. Wet bedding increases ammonia production and piglet mortality. Store bedding bales under cover to keep them dry. Calculate bedding requirements at 2-4 bales per sow per farrowing cycle depending on season and weather. ## Feeding and Nutrition ### Sow Feeding in Outdoor Systems Outdoor sows have higher energy requirements than indoor sows due to cold exposure, walking distance, and rooting activity. Adjust feed levels based on [body condition scoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/body-condition-scoring-a-tool-for-feed-management), weather conditions, and stage of production. Use a scale of 1 to 5 for condition scoring, with target scores of 3 for dry sows and 3.5 for lactating sows. Increase feed by 0.5-1.0 kg per sow per day during cold weather. Provide feed in troughs or on clean ground away from wet areas to reduce waste. ### Creep Feeding for Piglets Piglets in outdoor systems benefit from creep feed starting at 7-10 days of age. Place feed in a protected creep area within the farrowing hut. Use a high-quality starter diet with 18-20% crude protein. Clean uneaten feed daily to prevent spoilage and attract pests. Piglets that consume creep feed before weaning have higher weaning weights and better transition to post-weaning diets. Monitor creep feed intake to adjust amounts offered. ### Water Supply Provide clean, fresh water at all times. Use portable water troughs or nipple drinkers mounted on mobile water carts. In freezing weather, use heated waterers or check troughs twice daily to break ice. Water consumption increases with temperature and lactation stage. A lactating sow may drink 15-25 liters per day. Clean water troughs weekly to prevent algae growth and contamination. Position water sources away from shelter entrances to keep bedding dry. ### Supplemental Iron Piglets born outdoors may have different iron status compared to indoor piglets. [Intensive indoor versus outdoor swine production systems: genotype and supplemental iron effects on blood hemoglobin and selected immune measures in young pigs](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10492444) examines iron supplementation effects across systems. [Iron deficiency in outdoor pig production](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12440796) specifically addresses iron deficiency risks in outdoor systems. Producers should monitor piglet hemoglobin levels and provide injectable iron at 1-3 days of age if indicated by blood testing. Piglets that have access to soil may obtain some iron from rooting, but this is often insufficient to meet requirements. ## Welfare Considerations ### Tail Biting Tail biting can occur in outdoor systems despite more space and environmental enrichment. [Tail-biting in outdoor pig production](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15951210) documents this behavior in outdoor settings. Risk factors include poor nutrition, health challenges, competition for feed, and lack of rooting substrate. Provide straw, soil, or other manipulable materials. Inspect tails weekly and remove affected pigs to a hospital pen. Address underlying causes such as feed formulation, stocking density, or ventilation in shelters. ### Weather Stress Outdoor pigs are exposed to solar radiation, rain, wind, and temperature extremes. Provide shade structures or natural tree cover in summer. In winter, ensure shelters are dry, draft-free, and bedded. Monitor pigs for signs of heat stress (panting, lethargy, red skin) and cold stress (shivering, huddling, reduced feed intake). Move farrowing dates to avoid extreme weather when possible. Provide wallows or misters in hot weather for sows. Windbreaks made of straw bales or fabric can reduce wind chill in exposed paddocks. ### Predation and Injury Predators such as foxes, coyotes, and dogs can attack piglets and small weaners. Secure perimeter fencing and use guardian animals if predation is a problem. Inspect pigs daily for injuries from fencing, shelters, or other pigs. Treat wounds promptly and remove aggressive animals from the group. Record predator sightings and attacks to adjust management. Electric fencing around paddocks deters most predators. ### Sow Mortality [Causes of sow mortality in Hungarian indoor and outdoor pig production units](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/0036715123) examines mortality causes across systems. Common causes in outdoor units include lameness, prolapse, mastitis, and weather-related deaths. Record all sow deaths with cause, age, parity, and location. Investigate clusters of mortality for management or disease issues. Provide non-slip surfaces at shelter entrances to reduce lameness. Monitor body condition and adjust feed to prevent thin sows that are more vulnerable to cold stress. ## Disease Management and Biosecurity ### Parasite Control Outdoor pigs have higher exposure to internal and external parasites. Implement a strategic deworming program based on fecal egg counts. Rotate paddocks to break parasite life cycles. Pasture rest periods of 6-12 months reduce parasite burdens. Monitor for signs of mange, lice, and worm infestations. Treat affected animals promptly with veterinary-approved products. Keep treatment records including product, dose, date, and withdrawal period. ### Respiratory Disease Outdoor systems generally have lower respiratory disease pressure than indoor confinement. However, [The effect of outdoor production on the seroprevalence of Lawsonia intracellularis in growing-finishing pigs in a large pig production unit infected with endemic porcine proliferative enteropathy](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/0038476222) shows that outdoor production can affect disease seroprevalence. Monitor for coughing, labored breathing, and reduced growth rates. Consult a veterinarian for diagnostic testing and vaccination protocols. Maintain good ventilation in shelters to reduce respiratory challenges during cold weather when huts are closed up. ### Biosecurity Practices Outdoor units face biosecurity challenges from wildlife, birds, and visitors. Implement a biosecurity plan that includes: - Perimeter fencing to exclude wildlife - Boot cleaning stations at paddock entrances - Dedicated clothing and boots for workers - Quarantine of new animals for 30 days - Restricted visitor access - Deadstock disposal away from active paddocks [Swine production intensity and swine-specific fecal contamination of household surfaces at residences of industrial livestock operation workers and community residents, North Carolina, USA](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.179591) highlights the importance of biosecurity for worker and community health. Change clothing and wash boots before leaving the farm to prevent pathogen spread. ### Disease Surveillance Work with a veterinarian to establish a herd health plan. Conduct regular blood testing for key diseases. Report notifiable diseases to the appropriate animal health authority. [www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/swine](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/swine) provides information on reportable swine diseases in the United States. Keep a log of all health observations, treatments, and test results. Review health records monthly to identify trends. ## Environmental Management ### Nutrient Management Outdoor pig production concentrates manure nutrients in paddocks and around shelters. [Ammonia and odour emissions from UK pig farms and nitrogen leaching from outdoor pig production. A review](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24211346) reviews nitrogen leaching risks from outdoor systems. Rotate paddocks to prevent nutrient buildup. Test soil nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels annually. Apply supplemental fertilizer only as needed based on soil tests. Avoid overstocking that leads to nutrient saturation of paddocks. ### Pasture Management Maintain vegetative cover to reduce erosion and nutrient runoff. Use cool-season grasses and legumes for forage. Stocking density should match pasture carrying capacity. Move shelters and feed stations regularly to prevent bare spots. Reseed damaged areas during the growing season. Use temporary fencing to rest paddocks and allow forage recovery. Monitor pasture height and quality to adjust rotation timing. ### Water Quality Protect surface water and groundwater from pig waste. Locate paddocks away from streams, ponds, and wells. Maintain buffer strips of vegetation along waterways. Monitor well water for nitrate and bacterial contamination. Comply with local regulations for manure management and nutrient application. Test water sources at least annually for coliform bacteria and nitrates. ## Records and Measurements ### Production Records Maintain records for each group of pigs including: - Number of sows bred, farrowed, and weaned - Pigs born alive, stillborn, and mummified - Pre-weaning mortality and causes - Weaning weights and age - Feed consumption and cost - Veterinary treatments and medications - Mortality and culling reasons Use these records to calculate key performance indicators such as pigs weaned per sow per year, pre-weaning mortality rate, and [feed conversion ratio](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/feed-conversion-ratio-measuring-improving-poultry-efficiency). Compare your records to industry benchmarks to identify areas for improvement. ### Environmental Records Record daily weather conditions including temperature, precipitation, and wind. Note extreme events that affect pig comfort or management. Track soil temperature and moisture for pasture management. Document paddock rotations and rest periods. Use weather data to plan farrowing dates and shelter moves. ### Economic Records Track all costs including: - Land rent or purchase cost - Fencing and shelter depreciation - Feed and bedding purchases - Labor hours and wages - Veterinary and medication costs - Marketing and transport costs - Premiums received for outdoor-bred products Compare these costs to indoor production records to evaluate profitability. Calculate cost per pig weaned and cost per kilogram of gain. Review economic records quarterly to adjust management and pricing. ## Common Failure Patterns ### Overstocking Stocking too many pigs per hectare leads to pasture destruction, mud, nutrient buildup, and increased disease pressure. Signs include bare ground, erosion, piglet mortality, and poor growth rates. Reduce stocking density or increase paddock rotation frequency. Use soil tests and pasture condition scores to determine appropriate stocking rates. ### Inadequate Shelter Poorly designed or maintained shelters cause piglet crushing, weather stress, and reduced feed intake. Check shelters for leaks, drafts, and structural damage before each use. Provide enough shelter space for all pigs to lie down comfortably. Replace worn or damaged huts promptly. ### Poor Drainage Wet paddocks cause lameness, mastitis, and piglet mortality. Avoid heavy clay soils for outdoor pig units. Install drainage tiles or ditches in problem areas. Move pigs to drier ground during wet seasons. Use raised platforms or deep bedding in shelter areas to keep pigs dry. ### Inconsistent Feeding Irregular feed delivery causes fighting, tail biting, and reduced growth. Establish a consistent feeding schedule. Check feed troughs daily for spoilage and competition. Adjust feed levels based on body condition and weather. Use feed storage bins that protect against rodents and moisture. ### Neglected Biosecurity Lax biosecurity allows disease introduction from wildlife, visitors, or new stock. Review biosecurity protocols quarterly. Train all workers on procedures. Document breaches and corrective actions. Maintain perimeter fencing and boot cleaning stations. ## Limitations and Professional Escalation ### When Outdoor Systems May Not Work Outdoor pig production is not suitable for all farms. Limitations include: - Heavy clay or poorly drained soils - Extreme climates with prolonged heat or cold - High land costs or limited acreage - Predator pressure that cannot be managed - Regulatory restrictions on outdoor pig units - Lack of labor for daily paddock moves Evaluate your farm's soil type, climate, and labor availability before investing in outdoor systems. Start with a small pilot group to test suitability. ### Professional Escalation Criteria Consult a veterinarian, agricultural engineer, or extension specialist when: - Mortality exceeds 5% in any group - Pre-weaning mortality exceeds 15% - Sow mortality exceeds 3% annually - Disease outbreaks affect multiple groups - Soil nutrient levels exceed regulatory limits - Water quality tests show contamination - Structural failures in fencing or shelters - Persistent tail biting or other welfare issues [www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) provides management and nutrition guidance for swine producers. Contact your local extension office for region-specific recommendations. ## [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) Considerations ### Pork Safety from Outdoor Systems [Intensive swine production and pork safety](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21117987) discusses food safety across production systems. Outdoor pigs may have different pathogen exposure patterns than indoor pigs. Implement on-farm food safety practices including: - Withdrawal periods for all medications - Clean water sources - Proper carcass handling at slaughter - Traceability records from birth to slaughter Maintain separation between pig areas and food storage or preparation areas. Train workers on food safety principles. ### Withdrawal Periods Record all medications and treatments with product name, dose, route, date, and withdrawal time. Never market pigs before withdrawal periods expire. Post withdrawal times in the treatment area and on pig records. Use a treatment log that follows each group to market. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What are the main types of outdoor pig production systems? The main types include breeding herds on pasture with farrowing huts, weaner-to-finish systems on pasture or arable land, and integrated systems where sows farrow outdoors and piglets are moved indoors after weaning. Each system has different land, labor, and facility requirements. Breeding herds require the most land per sow due to rotational paddocks for farrowing and dry sow groups. ### How much land is needed for outdoor pig production? Stocking density varies by soil type, climate, and management intensity. A common range is 10-20 sows per hectare for breeding herds. Finishing pigs require more space per pig due to longer occupancy. Lighter soils and drier climates allow higher stocking rates. Heavier clay soils require lower stocking densities to prevent poaching and mud problems. ### What fencing is best for outdoor pigs? Permanent perimeter fencing should be woven wire or high-tensile electric with at least 1.2 meters height. Temporary electric fencing with polywire or polytape works for paddock divisions. All fencing must be checked weekly for voltage, damage, and grounding issues. Electric fencing requires a minimum of 2,000 volts at the fence line to be effective. ### How do I prevent tail biting in outdoor pigs? Provide adequate space, rooting substrate such as straw or soil, and consistent feeding. Inspect tails weekly and remove affected pigs. Address underlying causes such as nutrition, health, or competition. Tail biting can occur in outdoor systems despite more space. Ensure feed formulations meet nutritional requirements and provide environmental enrichment. ### What are the main welfare concerns for outdoor pigs? Key welfare concerns include weather exposure, predation, tail biting, lameness from wet ground, and parasite burdens. Provide shelter, shade, clean bedding, and regular health checks. Monitor body condition and treat injuries promptly. Record welfare indicators such as lameness scores, body condition scores, and tail damage to track trends. ### How does outdoor production affect disease risk? Outdoor pigs have lower respiratory disease risk but higher parasite exposure compared to indoor pigs. Disease seroprevalence can differ between systems. Implement parasite control, biosecurity, and vaccination programs with veterinary guidance. Monitor for diseases such as [Lawsonia intracellularis](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/lawsonia-intracellularis) that may have different patterns in outdoor systems. ### Is outdoor pig production more profitable than indoor? Profitability depends on land costs, labor availability, feed prices, and market premiums for outdoor-bred products. Outdoor systems have lower capital costs for buildings but higher land and labor costs. Compare total costs and revenue for your specific situation. Premiums for outdoor-bred pork can offset higher production costs in some markets. ### What records should I keep for outdoor pig production? Maintain records for breeding, farrowing, weaning, mortality, feed consumption, treatments, weather, paddock rotations, and costs. Use these records to evaluate performance, identify problems, and make management decisions. Record keeping is essential for regulatory compliance, food safety, and continuous improvement. ## Related Farming Guides - [Manure Management For Pig Farms](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/manure-management-for-pig-farms) - [Lentivirus Production](/blog/guides/plaque-assays-planning-controls-and-reporting-viral-titer) - [Systems Biology](/blog/news/systems-biology) - [Carp Farming Pond Production Feeding And Harvest Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/aquaculture/carp-farming-pond-production-feeding-and-harvest-management) - [Pig Lameness Monitoring And Flooring Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-lameness-monitoring-and-flooring-management) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Pig Enrichment Programs and Behavior Monitoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/pig-enrichment-programs-and-behavior-monitoring) * [Swine Handling Facility Design for Safe Pig Movement](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-handling-facility-design-safe-pig-movement) * [Swine Feeding Management for Grow-Finish Pigs](/knowledge/animal-farming/swine/swine-feeding-management-for-grow-finish-pigs) ## References and Further Reading - [www.ars.usda.gov](https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection) - [www.aphis.usda.gov](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/swine) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) - [Research trends in outdoor pig production - A review.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28728401). Asian-Australasian journal of animal sciences, 2017. - [Tail-biting in outdoor pig production.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15951210). Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997), 2006. - [Iron deficiency in outdoor pig production.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12440796). Journal of [veterinary medicine](/blog/careers/veterinary-medicine-careers-from-clinical-practice-to-public-health). A, Physiology, pathology, clinical medicine, 2002. - [Intensive indoor versus outdoor swine production systems: genotype and supplemental iron effects on blood hemoglobin and selected immune measures in young pigs.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10492444). Journal of animal science, 1999. - [Ammonia and odour emissions from UK pig farms and nitrogen leaching from outdoor pig production. A review.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24211346). The Science of the total environment, 2014. - [Intensive swine production and pork safety.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21117987). Foodborne pathogens and disease, 2011. - [Causes of sow mortality in Hungarian indoor and outdoor pig production units](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/0036715123). Berliner Und Munchener Tierarztliche Wochenschrift, 2002. - [Swine production intensity and swine-specific fecal contamination of household surfaces at residences of industrial livestock operation workers and community residents, North Carolina, USA](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.179591). Science of the Total Environment, 2025. - [The effect of outdoor production on the seroprevalence of Lawsonia intracellularis in growing-finishing pigs in a large pig production unit infected with endemic porcine proliferative enteropathy](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/0038476222). Deutsche Tierarztliche Wochenschrift, 2003. - [Space assignation and housing options effects on weaner pigs and on subsequent stages in outdoor production systems](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/84929698378). Revista Electronica De Veterinaria, 2015. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.