The Government of the Northwest Territories has released the Primary and Community Health Care Framework, setting a long-term direction for primary and community health care across the territory.

The NWT health and social services system has made progress over several years to improve access, strengthen continuity of care, and increase cultural safety. At the same time, we recognize many residents continue to face challenges accessing care closer to home and care that is culturally appropriate. Indigenous Peoples continue to experience the greatest inequities in health outcomes and care experiences.

The Framework applies to a wide range of primary and community health care services, including first-contact care, community-based and preventative services, team-based care models, navigation and continuity supports, and connections to social and community services.

It outlines a path towards a more connected, relationship-based and culturally safe system. It does not set out specific actions, timelines, funding, or service changes, but it is intended to serve as a guide for future planning, policy development, and co-design of improvement initiatives. This work will be co-developed through established processes, including with Indigenous governments.

This approach aligns with the GNWT’s mandate to deliver equitable access to sustainable primary care and provide culturally respectful health services.

Quote:

“Residents have been clear about the challenges they face accessing primary and community health care. This Framework will serve as a roadmap for us and our partners to achieve our  vision of healthy people and communities across the territory. It sets the long‑term direction for improving access, strengthening continuity, and supporting care that is culturally safe and responsive to community needs.”

 - Lesa Semmler, Minister of Health and Social Services

Quick facts

• The Primary and Community Health Care Framework sets a shared, long‑term direction for how primary and community health care in the Northwest Territories will evolve over time.
• It is organized around three guiding constellations that must advance together:
  • Indigenous Cultures at the Centre focuses on governance, decision‑making, and the integration of Indigenous knowledge systems into care.
  • Interconnected Care Models focus on continuity, relationships, and team‑based care that improves coordination across services and settings.
  • A System That Learns focuses on learning, reflection, and accountability, using multiple forms of evidence, including Indigenous knowledge and lived experience.
• The Framework identifies system enablers needed to support change, including governance, workforce stability and wellbeing, funding alignment, and data and digital infrastructure.
• The Framework does not implement change on its own. It guides future work such as regional and community co‑design, time‑limited action plans, practice guidelines, performance measurement, and policy or legislative development.

Related Links

• Primary and Community Health Care Framework: A Shared Journey Toward the North Star

For media requests, please contact:
Andrew Wind
Manager, Communications
Health and Social Services
Government of the Northwest Territories
HSSmedia@gov.nt.ca