Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Partnership for Quality Medical Donations (PQMD)?

The Partnership for Quality Medical Donations (PQMD) is a nonprofit membership network of leading nonprofit organizations, corporations, and public sector partners working together to improve access to quality healthcare in underserved communities and in humanitarian settings around the world. PQMD serves as a collaborative platform for learning, alignment, and continuous improvement across the medical donations and global health ecosystem.

Why was PQMD formed?

PQMD was founded in 1996 in response to growing concerns about the quality, safety, and effectiveness of donated medicines and medical supplies. A small group of pharmaceutical companies and nonprofit organizations came together to support global standards for responsible medical donations, aligned with World Health Organization (WHO) guidance. PQMD formally incorporated as a nonprofit in 1999 and has since evolved into a trusted global convener and thought leader in medical donation quality and practice.

What does PQMD do?

PQMD:

PQMD does not facilitate or broker product donations. Instead, we strengthen the systems, standards, and partnerships that make quality donations possible.

Where do PQMD members work and donate?

PQMD member organizations operate globally, supporting communities in the United States and across the world. Donations of medicines, medical supplies, equipment, and services are made directly by PQMD member organizations through their own programs and trusted partners.

Is PQMD a regulatory or watchdog organization? Does it enforce compliance?

No. PQMD is not a regulatory body and does not enforce compliance or maintain a blacklist of organizations. PQMD’s guidelines are a reference available as a global good to donors and donation program organizers. PQMD’s role is to promote best practices through education, peer learning, transparency, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Do corporate members only donate to PQMD nonprofit members?

No. Corporate members donate through a wide range of nonprofit, governmental, and international partners. Product donations are guided by quality standards, regulatory requirements, and the specific health needs of recipient communities – not by PQMD membership status.

Are both nonprofit and corporate organizations members of PQMD?

Yes. PQMD is a multi-sector partnership that includes:

  • Nonprofit humanitarian and global health organizations

  • Pharmaceutical, medical device, and healthcare product companies

  • Associate and supporting organizations

This cross-sector model strengthens collaboration, accountability, and collective impact.

How does collaboration among PQMD members work?

Members collaborate through:

  • Regular member meetings and working groups

  • Global convenings such as the annual Forums

  • Webinars, communities of practice, and peer learning exchanges

  • Shared dialogue during humanitarian emergencies and sector-wide challenges

This collaboration improves coordination, reduces duplication, and strengthens the quality and impact of medical donation programs.

How can an organization become a member of PQMD?

Organizations interested in joining PQMD are invited to apply through the membership review process. Membership is based on alignment with PQMD’s mission, demonstrated commitment to quality and ethical practices, and adherence to PQMD guidelines.


Visit our Membership page for eligibility criteria and application information.

Are membership dues required?

Yes. PQMD is supported in large part through annual membership dues. Dues structures differ by organization type (corporate, nonprofit) and help sustain PQMD’s convening, programming, and guideline development work.

Frequently Asked Questions July 29, 2015