The Northwest Territories provides health care based on residency eligibility, and the following summarizes this coverage.

-  for full details please visit the Northwest Territories government website -

Medical Care:

The following services are insured:

• Diagnosis and treatment of illness/injury; surgery.
• Obstetrical care, including pre and post natal care.
• Eye examinations, treatment and procedures by ophthalmologist.

Hospital Care:

The following services provided in a hospital are insured:

• Accommodation and meals at standard level.
• Nursing services.
• Diagnostic services, i.e. x-rays, laboratory work.
• Drugs when administered in hospital.
• Radiotherapy treatment, occupational therapy, physiotherapy.
• Detoxification services.

Services that are not covered include:

• Ambulance charges, except for inter-hospital transfers.
• Dental services unless related to jaw injury and/or disease.
• Alcohol and drug rehabilitation unless prior approval is granted.
• Prescription drugs.
• Optometry services.
• Yearly physicals.

Metis Benefits:

The Northwest Territories are the only Canadian jurisdiction that offers supplementary health benefits for indigenous Metis residents. These include:

• Dental services.
• Eyeglasses.
• Medical equipment and supplies.
• Medical travel.
• Prescription Drugs.

These services are also covered for all residents that are 60 and older. As well, NWT offers Extended Health Benefits for people with specified diseases and/or conditions that are not otherwise covered.

Last updated October 2008