Healthcare

The territory’s primary hospital, offering 24-hour emergency services, inpatient care (including elder care and palliative care), outpatient clinics, laboratory and X-ray, and other health services.

For emergencies call 911 or 867-979-4422 (ambulance).

For general inquiries or appointments, call the hospital’s main line at 867-975-8600.

Provides nursing care, personal support, and home visits to help elders remain in their homes as long as possible. Services include help with medication, wound care, bathing, and other daily living activities.

Eligibility: Available to seniors or adults with disabilities who require support at home (no referral needed – individuals or family can request an assessment).

How to access: Contact the Iqaluit Home Care office at 867-975-5776, or ask at the hospital/health center to arrange an assessment for home care services.

A residential care facility in Iqaluit offering full-time supportive living for elders who need daily care and supervision. It provides personal care, medication management, meals, and emotional support in a home-like environment. The Iqaluit Elders Home accommodates up to 8 resident elders, and an attached complex offers 12 independent living units for seniors who can live semi-independently.

Eligibility: Elders who require 24-hour care or whose families can no longer provide the needed care. Placement is typically managed through the Department of Health.

How to access: Referral is usually through a healthcare provider or social services.

For information, contact the Elders Home at 867-975-5626 or the Dept. of Health Continuing Care division in Iqaluit.

The Government of Nunavut’s Extended Health Benefits Full Coverage Plan for seniors provides coverage for prescription medications, medical travel costs, vision and dental benefits, medical supplies, and equipment for Nunavut residents aged 65 and over (who are not already covered by a federal program).

Eligibility: All Nunavut residents 65 years or older (and their spouses 60+), Note: Inuit seniors already receive similar benefits through federal programs (NIHB).

How to access: An application is required – forms are available from the Department of Health or local health centers.

Contact Iqaluit Health Services or the Department of Health website for the 65+ EHB application. Once approved, present your EHB card when accessing medical travel or pharmacy services.

A federal program (administered by Health Canada) that covers health benefits for Inuit and First Nations people of all ages. Inuit elders in Nunavut receive coverage for prescription drugs, vision and dental care, medical supplies, and medical travel assistance through NIHB.

Eligibility: Inuit beneficiaries (with a valid NTI or land claim beneficiary card).

How to access: Benefits are accessed through local health centers – inform the hospital or pharmacy that you are an NIHB client. For questions, you can contact the NIHB regional office or ask the hospital’s NIHB coordinator in Iqaluit.

Elders and their families can access mental health support through the Department of Health. Counseling, therapy, and psychiatric services are offered at the hospital and community clinics.

How to access: Contact the Mental Health Unit in Iqaluit at 867-975-7270 to request counseling or to inquire about elder-focused mental wellness programs.

The Kamatsiaqtut Help Line (available territory-wide) can also provide confidential support after hours at 1-800-265-3333.