Residents in Igloolik have access to expanded healthcare coverage as of April 2026, thanks to recent updates to the Non-Insured Health Benefits program. The changes provide new support for wound care, audiology accessories for cochlear implants, bone-anchored hearing systems, and bone conduction hearing systems, and nutritional needs for eligible First Nations and Inuit clients in the community.
Under the updated policy from Indigenous Services Canada, the program now covers Polyhexamethylene biguanide. This disinfectant wound cleansing solution is used to treat various skin injuries and ulcers. Patients requiring this treatment will need to obtain prior approval from their healthcare provider to access the coverage.
The program also expanded its support for individuals with hearing impairments. Residents who use cochlear implants, bone-anchored hearing systems, or non-implantable bone conduction hearing systems can now receive coverage for necessary accessories once every five years. As with the new wound care supplies, prior approval is required for these items.
Additionally, the program has updated who can recommend specific nutritional products. Midwives practicing in Nunavut are now recognized as eligible recommenders for products such as infant formula, provided the recommendation falls within their territorial scope of practice. This change is expected to improve access to essential nutritional support in remote areas like Igloolik, where finding physician availability can be difficult due to persistent challenges with healthcare staffing and infrastructure in the territory.
Eligible residents who have questions about these new benefits or require assistance with the prior approval process can contact the Igloolik Health Centre for further information and guidance.
