The Medical Transportation Assistance Program (MTAP), administered by the Government of Newfoundland & Labrador’s Department of Labrador Affairs, helps Medical Care Plan (MCP) beneficiaries cover travel expenses when they must travel outside their community—or province—for specialized, insured medical services.

Program Overview & Eligibility

• Who it helps: MCP-registered patients (and, where medically necessary, their escorts) who need to travel for specialist visits, treatments like chemotherapy, dialysis, radiation, or diagnostic tests (e.g., MRI, PET) that aren't available locally.
• Non-means-tested: MTAP is available to all eligible MCP beneficiaries regardless of income. Another program, MeTS, serves income-tested clients.

Covered Expenses

Eligible out-of-pocket expenses include:

• Airfare (economy) – Includes associated taxi fares, with options for partial pre-payment or vouchers.
• Private vehicle mileage – At government-approved rates.
• Accommodations – Covers stays in purchased, registered, or private lodging, plus meal per diems.
• Scheduled transport – Includes bus and ferry fares.

How the Program Works

• Advance coverage: In-lab province programs offer pre-payment options—75% of flights for Labrador-Grenfell residents and 50% for out-of-province airfare.
• Post-travel claims: Beneficiaries pay upfront and submit detailed claim forms (in-province, out-of-province, vehicle usage, etc.) with official receipts within six months of travel.
• Documentation required: Includes specialist referral for out-of-province travel and proof of travel/medical appointments.

Additional Details

• Non-medical escorts: Escorts are eligible if medically necessary and must share accommodation with the patient.
• Payer of last resort: Any private insurance must be claimed first; MTAP pays the remaining eligible costs.
• Partnerships: Hope Air pilot provides free air transportation for eligible users under MTAP.