Travel pack FAQs

1. How can I apply for a PTP or a DTP?
A: You must complete and submit the application for a PTP or DTP at least three
weeks prior to departure and a pass a screening process. Once approved, we will
ship the pack to your address in Canada (not to a P.O. Box address) so that you
will receive it three or four days prior to your date of departure.

2. Why is a donation requested for a Travel Pack?
A: HPIC requests a donation for each Travel Pack to cover a portion of the costs
to run the program. Receipts for income tax purposes are issued in accordance
with Canadian tax laws.

3. What does a Travel Pack consist of?
A: The PTP consists of two sturdy boxes. Each box is 11 x 14 x 17 inches and
weighs (2 boxes together) up to 50 lbs. The DTP consists of two boxes. Each box
is 16 x 16 x 16 inches and weighs (2 boxes together) up to 65 lbs.

4. How can I travel with a PTP or a DTP?
A: Travel Packs are designed to travel well. Each box comes with handles. A PTP or DTP is considered one piece of check-in luggage. You may consider shrink-wrapping the two boxes prior to your departure.

5. Can I customize the Travel Pack for the community I will be serving in?
A:  The contents of each Travel Pack are standard. If there is a need for a
product(s) not available in the Travel Pack, you may make the request by
completing a Special Physician Needs application.

6. What other documentation is required?
A: Upon arrival of medicines at final destination, HPIC requires the
Confirmation of Safe Arrival form to be completed and returned immediately and
the Project Report (including photos) submitted within 30 days of your return
to Canada. All the medicines and supplies are generously donated by Canadian
health-care companies. HPIC is committed to ensuring that these precious
donations are used appropriately and to reporting back to the companies about
the impact of their donations.

7. Who may apply?
A: The Travel Packs are designed primarily for physicians and dentists
travelling to the developing world on health-care missions. Non-governmental
organizations and associations may also apply to carry these packs.

8. Any information on customs?
A: HPIC provides two documents with each Travel Pack: Certificate of Donation
and detailed Packing List including products, quantities, and expiry dates. It is the
carrier's responsibility to find out what other documents are required to clear
customs. HPIC will not release any medicines to the potential carrier until
customs issues are addressed.

For more information contact:
Margaret Buchanan
Manager, Media Relations
Toll-free: 1-800-627-1787
Tel: 514-695-0007, ext. 117
email: mbuchanan@hpicanada.ca