Yellowknife — November 20, 2025
The Government of the Northwest Territories has launched new web pages designed to communicate more directly with residents about ongoing work to strengthen the health and social services system based on the needs and priorities of NWT communities and residents.
These pages provide up-to-date information on progress toward three key health system priorities:
- Medical Travel modernization,
- Advancing cultural safety and anti-racism, and
- Strengthening the model of care in small communities.
These priorities, identified by Minister of Health and Social Services, Lesa Semmler, focus on improving access to care, ensuring culturally safe services, and supporting equitable, sustainable health delivery across the territory.
The new web pages explain what changes are being made, why they matter, and how residents will benefit. They include timelines, milestones, and regular updates to keep the public informed throughout the life of this government.
Quote
Improved access to health care is fundamental to these priorities and essential for fostering healthy people and communities. Residents deserve clear, timely information about the changes we are making to modernize medical travel, advance cultural safety and anti-racism, and build a sustainable model of care for small communities. These web pages reflect our commitment to transparency and accountability as we work together to strengthen the health system.
- Lesa Semmler, Minister of Health and Social Services
Quick facts
- Medical Travel modernization: Work is underway to update policies, improve communications, and streamline the medical travel process for residents who need to travel for care.
- Advancing cultural safety and anti-racism: The GNWT is revising training programs, supporting staff facilitation skills, and planning an Indigenous Knowledge and Wellness Gathering to promote equity and healing.
- Small community model of care: The GNWT is working with all three Health and Social Services Authorities to redesign how care is delivered in small and remote communities.
Related links
For media requests, please contact:
Andrew Wind
Manager, Communications
Health and Social Services
Government of the Northwest Territories
HSSmedia@gov.nt.ca