Information for Healthcare Providers
In this section of the website, you will find information about Nunavut’s healthcare model as well as expectations for those working in healthcare.
About Nunavut’s Healthcare System
Since 1967, the territorial government has a department of health which is responsible for administering a range of health and healthcare services.
Quick Facts about Nunavut
Population
Nunavut’s population is approximately 32,000 people of whom 85% are Inuit.
Hospitals
Nunavut has one hospital (Iqaluit, NU), and two larger health centres in regional centres (Rankin Inlet and Cambridge Bay, NU) staffed by physicians.
Health Centres
Health centres staffed by community health nurses service the rest of the communities, and physicians make visits to these communities throughout the year. All of these care centres are run by the Government of Nunavut.
Specialized Services
Specialized services are accessed at tertiary care facilities in, for example, Yellowknife, NT, Edmonton AB, Winnipeg, MB, or Ottawa, ON if more advanced or complex care is required, for example, heart attacks, stroke or cancer care.
Health Services
Public health and mental health services are also largely the domain of the Government of Nunavut, Dept. of Health
Health Promotion
Health promotion initiatives are launched by numerous independent institutions, organizations and community agencies, as well as territorial government and Inuit organizations.
Programs
These programs consist of maternal-child health supports, chronic disease management, environmental health, anti-tobacco use initiatives, sexual health, infectious disease control, oral health, and nutrition and food security initiatives (Health 2014).
Funding
The health system is funded via federal transfer payments.
Expectations in a Healthcare Setting
Healthcare workers are expected to provide compassionate and competent care, ensuring the well-being and dignity of their patients. Learn about Nunavut-specific expectations here.
How to Make Referrals to Mental Health Supports
Find out the avenues for referring community members to timely mental health and addictions services should get it.
Resources
Find valuable resources for healthcare providers.
