Update on U.S. Antarctic program testing of electronic submission for Physical Qualification (PQ) documents

In the continued effort for process improvement and modernization for the U.S. Antarctic program, the Office of Polar Programs, through the primary contractor Leidos, has successfully completed the testing process for the electronic submission of Physical Qualification (PQ) documents.

The new process utilizes a web-based secure file transfer service that allows participants to upload their necessary paperwork, and share the documentation with the medical subcontractor, The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). This web-based initiative replaces the fax option as the primary submission mechanism, the fax option will remain as an alternate submission mechanism.

Currently, all outgoing Physical Qualification packets will include the option to submit electronically. Additional information and updates will be posted on OPP’s PQ website as it becomes available.