Beneficiaries in Inuvialuit Settlement Region to receive safe, reliable dental services

Inuvialuit Regional Corporation (IRC )is working on a plan to fill a critical gap in dental services in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region (ISR). For years, people receiving dental care in Inuvik raised concern about the lack of hygiene and proper sterilization at the only dental clinic in the region.

On Tuesday, October 8, 2024 IRC learned, through the media, that Beaufort Delta residents who received dental work in five community clinics earlier this year are at risk of infection. The poor communication and outreach from GNWT’s chief public health officer is unacceptable.

Affected communities include:

Aklavik – Susie Husky Health and Social Services Centre from April 23-29
Fort McPherson – Health Services from April 15-22
Paulatuk – Sadie Sukayaaluk Ruben Health and Social Service Centre from April 2-14
Sachs Harbour – Health Centre from March 21-24
Ulukhaktok – Emegak Health and Social Services Centre from March 27-April 1

Earlier this year IRC, in partnership with the federal government, conducted a review to evaluate the dental needs within the ISR.  Community-based access to dental services was identified as critical to improving oral health for Inuvialuit and reducing the unacceptably high rate of oral disease that is two to three times that of the rest of Canada.

Through our Health and Wellness division, and with support from the federal government, we are now developing a plan to implement our own dental services for each of the ISR communities (weather permitting) beginning in 2025. Details of the plan are currently being developed and more information will be available later this year.