Minister of Health and Social Services Lesa Semmler has completed a visit to the Sahtu Region, making stops in Tulita, Fort Good Hope, and Norman Wells.
She was joined by Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority (NTHSSA) Public Administrator Dan Florizone and Sahtu MLA Daniel McNeely.
The visit focused on meeting with local leaders, health workers, and community members to discuss priorities, opportunities, and challenges in health and social services. Minister Semmler said in-person discussions are essential for understanding what is working well and identifying gaps in services.
In Tulita, the delegation toured the construction site of the new Tulita Health Centre, which is expected to be completed by spring 2026. The facility will offer expanded space, modern infrastructure, and improved support for both patients and staff.
“I was encouraged to see the progress on the Tulita Health Centre,” said Minister Semmler. “This project reflects our government’s commitment to improving health infrastructure in small and remote communities.”
In Fort Good Hope, the Minister met with Chief and Council, representatives from the Sahtu Secretariat Incorporated, and residents at a public meeting.
She discussed government priorities such as modernizing medical travel, improving models of care for small communities, and ensuring cultural safety and anti-racism training for health and social services staff.
The visit wrapped up in Norman Wells with a tour of the Health Centre and Long-Term Care facility, and meetings with staff. The trip is part of the GNWT’s commitment to improving healthcare access and tackling systemic inequities.