Health and Social Services

Dental equipment replacement and visiting services supported through new agreements

The Government of the Northwest Territories is taking steps to resume dental services in communities by improving the safety and readiness of dental equipment in health centres and confirming contracts for visiting dental service providers in several locations.

A new three-year agreement with Health Canada under the federal Oral Health Access Fund provides over $3 million to assess, repair, and replace aging dental equipment in community health centres across the territory.  The agreement took effect on April 1, 2026.

GNWT releases Cancer Care Vision to guide cancer care across the Northwest Territories

The Government of the Northwest Territories has released the Cancer Care Vision: A Living Framework for Quality and Priorities in the Northwest Territories (the Vision). It is a guide that sets shared direction for how cancer care will be planned, coordinated, and improved over time.

Cancer affects individuals, families, and communities across the NWT. Many residents share similar challenges during their cancer journey, including long travel for care, navigating complex systems, and accessing care that is respectful, culturally safe, and responsive to their needs.

GNWT accepts Auditor General’s findings on Child and Family Services

The Office of the Auditor General of Canada released a report today on Child and Family Services in the Northwest Territories.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) welcomes and accepts the Auditor General’s findings and recommendations and acknowledges the importance of independent oversight of government programs and services. The GNWT’s response is included in the report.

Drinking water safety update for Mackenzie Mountain School in Norman Wells

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has received lead testing results for Mackenzie Mountain School in Norman Wells. Testing has confirmed that some water fixtures show lead levels above the maximum acceptable concentration (MAC) set out in the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality. As a result, the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer (OCPHO) has issued a Public Health Order for the schools.

Drinking water safety update for Łutsel K’e Dene School

Water testing for Łutsel K’e Dene School, Łutsel K’e is complete. Testing has confirmed that all water fixtures show lead levels below the maximum acceptable concentration (MAC) set out in the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality.

No remediation or mitigation measures are required, and Łutsel K’e Dene School can use sinks and water fountains normally.

Deadline extended – Apply to be a Legal or Medical Member of the NWT Mental Health Act Review Board

The deadline has been extended for legal and medical professionals to apply to serve on the NWT Mental Health Act Review Board.

The Board reviews matters involving involuntary admission under the Mental Health Act. Members bring legal or medical expertise to support fair and timely hearings.

GNWT introduces a standardized territorial process for Supported Living admissions

The Government of the Northwest Territories is introducing a new admission process for adults with disabilities into GNWT-funded Supported Living services.

Starting May 13, 2026, all new Supported Living admissions are coordinated through the Committee for Applications to Supported Living, known as CASL. CASL will serve as a single entry point for Supported Living applications across the Northwest Territories. Previously, admissions and waitlists were managed through various processes across regions and service providers.

Drinking water safety update for Deh Gah School, Jean Wetrade School, Kakisa School, École Įtłʼǫ̀, Mezi Community School and Mildred Hall School

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has received lead testing results for Deh Gah School in Fort Providence, Mezi Community School in Whati and Jean Wetrade School in Gametį̀. Testing has confirmed that some water fixtures show lead levels above the maximum acceptable concentration (MAC) set out in the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality. As a result, the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer (OCPHO) has issued a Public Health Order for the schools.

Mental Health Week

Mental Health Week is a time to talk openly about mental health and remind people that support is available.

Mental Health affects how we think, feel, and cope with daily life. Many people experience stress, anxiety, or emotional challenges at different times. These experiences are common, and help is available.

This year’s theme, Come Together, Canada. Stronger connections, better mental health, reminds us that social connection plays an important role in overall health. Across Canada, many people including youth, adults and seniors, report feeling lonely.

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