The Government of the Northwest Territories has tabled their response to 18 recommendations made in response to the critical incident investigations into the deaths of three Dehcho residents in early 2025.
The investigation was called for by the Legislative Assembly in March of 2025, following serious concerns about the care provided to the three residents.
“These investigations have raised serious concerns about the delivery of health services, particularly in small communities,” said Minister Denny Rodgers.
The response was compiled by the Department of Health and Social Services and the three Health and Social Services Authorities, highlighting work already underway as well as planned actions, and outlining a timeline for each of their recommendations.
Several of the recommendations focus on strengthening health services in small and remote communities by expanding after-hours access to care, improving medical evacuation services, and implementing virtual diagnostic tools.
“Health care providers in our small and remote communities work hard, often in difficult conditions, and they need the right systems, resources and support to provide safe, quality care,” said Rodgers.
Of the response’s 18 recommendations, one has already been completed, 13 have been accepted, and four have been accepted in principial. Some of the recommendations will be accomplished by existing plans, but others will require additional planning and resources.
The GNWT says that progress on achieving these recommendations will be assessed through existing quality and accountability processes.
